Connecticut has instituted an Ignition Interlock Device Program that requires certain drivers to have an ignition interlock device (IID) placed on their vehicle for 24 months. The 24 month period with the ignition interlock device can only start after a one year license suspension.
An ignition interlock device, also known as an in-car breathalyzer or breath alcohol test, is connected to the vehicles ignition system. The driver must blow into the device for several seconds in order for the device to ascertain the driver’s blood alcohol content (BAC). If the amount of alcohol in the driver’s blood exceeds a predetermined level the vehicle will not start.
Connecticut offers the Ignition Interlock Device Program for second DUI, vehicular manslaughter, and vehicular assault offenders.
The ignition interlocks approved by the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) also require additional retests, or rolling tests, as the vehicle is being driven. Of course, for safety reasons the car will not shut off if the driver fails the retest. Rather, an alarm will sound, often consisting of flashing the lights and sounding the horn. This is to ensure that the driver is the same person who originally blew into the ignition interlock system. Some ignition interlock devices also take a picture when the breathalyzer is used.
In addition, attempting to tamper, remove, or cheat the interlock system may result in an addition conviction and a driver license suspension. A driver’s license suspension will also result from failure to comply with the Connecticut Ignition Interlock Program requirements.
The program is available for people convicted of a second Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol or Drugs (DUI), a conviction for Vehicular Assault, or a conviction for Vehicular Manslaughter. The person must first have served one year of a driver license suspension before they are allowed to use an ignition interlock to regain their driving privileges.
To be able to take part in the Connecticut ignition interlock program the person must also meet the eligibility requirements and follow the procedures for the program. The eligibility requirements include having a Connecticut driver license, being eligible for reinstatement, and not have further suspensions or pending suspensions.
After meeting all of the interlock program’s eligibility requirements the personmust then fill out and submit an Ignition Interlock Device Application (Form RS-1). This form can be found at the DMV’s website. Any eligible persons should also be contacted by the Connecticut DMV sometime before their one year suspension is over regarding their eligibility and an application for the program.
Finally, after meeting all of the eligibility requirements, submitting the application, and gaining acceptance into the interlock program the person should have an ignition interlock device installed on all of the vehicles they own or operate. In order to be accepted into Connecticut’s ignition interlock program all vehicles owned or operated by the person must have a breathalyzer interlock device installed. Connecticut has approved four vendors to supply the interlock systems. The installation must then be verified with the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
This is provided as general information and specific issues regarding DUI offenses, license suspensions, the ignition interlock device program, or other legal matters should be referred to an attorney licensed in Connecticut.
