To meet the requirements of courts and insurance companies ignition interlock devices should be professionally installed.

Many ignition interlocks are purchased due to a court order after a person is convicted of a DUI or DWI. This is often not required after a first offense, though it is possible.  Further, each state has different rules and procedures regarding the use of ignition interlock devices.  People required to use ignition interlocks due to a court order should follow the guidelines of the state or local jurisdiction regarding available providers, installation, calibration, and monitoring.

Many states have recently begun using IID’s more frequently and some have passed legislation requiring the use of interlock devices for second DUI/DWI offenses. Missouri now requires repeat offenders to install an ignition interlock device before they’re allowed to receive a reinstated license. Be certain that the alcohol breath interlock you purchase and the interlock installer you use are approved by your state.

It is possible to avoid having the driver blow into the breathalyzer by having another person who has not consumed alcohol to blow into the device. But, if the driver is required by law to use the breathalizer the driver, as well as the surrogate individual, may be prosecuted.

Most ignition interlock devices also have a memory feature that records any breaths submitted which contain alcohol.  These devices store the information electronically and it can later be retrieved by law enforcement personnel, parents, or employers.  It is important to note that any alcohol will trigger the interlock device and be recorded as a violation.  It is therefore important to avoid using any mouthwash or other item that contains alcohol.

Ignition interlocks may also be used by private individuals or businesses. Some parents may have concerns about their teenage children drinking and driving and may therefore decide to install an ignition interlock device on their children’s vehicle.  Further, employers may find it prudent to install an IID on company vehicles to reduce the liability that may result from an employee driving under the influence of alcohol.

Purchasing an ignition interlock device for private use allows for more flexibility when shopping as installation is not limited to the providers allowed by the court or state.  However, some states also allow for some discretion in choosing court ordered interlock devices.

Breathalizers and ignition interlock devices, also known as “in car breathalyzers,” are commonly used by law enforcement or are part of a court order requiring their use by an individual, usually after a DUI or DWI offense. Many states are passing stricter legislation regarding the use of ignition interlock devices (IID). Missouri requires ignition interlocks for repeat offenders.

An installed ignition interlock device.

However, these devices are also available to the public for personal or business use.  For instance: parents may wish to ensure the safety of their children by installing an ignition interlock device on their teens vehicle; a business may require the use of in car breathalyzers for their employees to cut down on liability risks; or an individual may wish to use a hand held breathalyzer to test their blood-alcohol content before driving (it is important to note that the results of such tests will not preclude a DUI/DWI offense).  For monitoring teen children or employees some ignition interlock devices have GPS attached in order to locate a vehicle with a failed interlock device.

Many people also wish to carry a personal breathalyzers in order to monitor their own blood alcohol content before driving.  These personal breathalyzers come in a variety of types and sizes and vary greatly in price. The cheapest and smallest breathalyzers are often referred to as mini-breathalyzers.

As with any decision, when deciding whether to use a breathalyzer or ignition interlock and in deciding which brand and type to use it is important to gain as much information as possible before making the purchase.  Some factors, which will be discussed greater in later blogs, include ease of use, reliability, price, and installation.  Hopefully, by using the information provided in this blog and the links available here, you will be able to pick the right breathalyzer or ignition interlock for your purposes.

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