Prevent DUI Through Mandatory IIL for Everyone?

I was just reading Bill Cross's blog about an article he read regarding the restaurant business becoming upset at the current prospect of ignition interlock (IIL) devices being installed on all vehicles. IIL devices require a driver to pass a breathilizer test for alcohol to start their vehicle and requires random tests every so many minutes thereafter to keep the vehicle in operation. Currently, these devices are installed as a consequence for conviction of DUI in many states. However, they are not presently installed on all vehicles.

The discussion Mr. Cross brought up was that some restauranteers are up in arms about their patrons (all citizens, actually) being mandated to have an IIL on their vehicle. In other words, consideration is being given to manufacturing all vehicles in the US with IIL devices already installed. Restaurant and bar owners are concerned about the possible consequences to alcohol sales as a result. Conservatives are concerned with the limitations to personal freedom while liberals are concerned with whether or not giving up this liberty serves the greater good.

Personally, I can not imagine having to drive around with an IIL installed in my vehicle. How would a person manage driving, taking a breathilizer test every so many minutes, kids, pets, and any other distractions or noise? In my opinion, the IIL may end up causing just as many accidents as it hopes to prevent. Perhaps fatalities will decrease, as statisically most fatal car accidents involve alcohol.

What are you thoughts?

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MADD Pushing for IID for All California Drunk Drivers

Currently, California does not require first time convicted drunk drivers to install an ignition interlock device on their vehicle. The court may require subsequent convicted drunk drivers to install the device.

MADD is advocating for all convicted drunk drivers in California to be required to install the IID on their vehicles. Studies have shown that the IDD is not an effective tool in reducing repeat drunk driving offenses in individuals who have only offended the drunk driving laws once prior to its installation.

An ignition interlock device (IID) is a piece of equipment which requires a alcohol breath test prior to starting a vehicle, and sporatic breath tests while the vehicle is running in order to keep it operational. Additionally, the device records the information on the blood alcohol level of the driver and reports this information to the law at regular intervals. Attempting to start the vehicle with a blood alcohol level above the legal limit will result in the vehicle not starting and the attempt is recorded and reported. It is relatively expensive to install, and additional reporting fees are usually charged.

What are your thoughts on making this device mandatory for first time drunk drivers in California?

Texas DWI Penalties & Roadblock Legislation

I've been reading about how the Texas government is passing laws allowing the police to set up roadblocks to screen for drunk drivers in certain counties. I'm curious if people really think this is necessary and/or beneficial. Are not the Texas DWI penalties a sufficient deterrent to driving while intoxicated in Texas?

If not, are roadblocks the best way to decrease the number of drunk driving accidents in Texas? What would you suggest?

Please leave a comment with your thoughts on this subject.

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