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?
Friday, May 1, 2009
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