If you or someone you love has been in an auto accident caused by a drunk driver, you may especially want to know about the consequences that can be faced by that drunk driver. In Connecticut, these penalties can include jail time, fines and the loss of driving privileges. Some people who are allowed to drive again after causing a drunk driving accident may be required to use an ignition interlock device.
An ignition interlock device is a mechanism that law enforcement and the courts utilize to help reduce repeat drunk driving offenses. According to IgnitionInterlockDevice.com, it requires installation into the driver’s vehicle as well as maintenance checks every month. There are three important elements to an IID—a breath test unit, a recording unit and a microchip. The breath sensor unit is often mounted on a vehicle dashboard. It is into this unit that a driver must inhale at least 1.5 liters of breath before every journey in the vehicle. This device measures the breath alcohol content of the driver and transmits it to the main device which is commonly installed in a glove box.
The data sent to the main device is recorded on a computer chip. This information can be downloaded and read by authorities. If the BrAC is above a designated limit, the vehicle’s ignition will be disabled and if above, the vehicle can be started. Anywhere from five to 30 minutes after an ignition start, the driver will receive a notification to take another test. If this test is failed, alarms will signal until the vehicle is stopped.
This information is not intended to provide legal advice but general information about ignition interlock devices in Connecticut.
