One of the most consequential aspects of a DWI conviction for many people is the suspension of their driver’s license. If your impaired driving case meets certain criteria, by having an ignition interlock device (IID) installed in your vehicle(s), you can drive legally on a restricted license.
An IID is a breathalyzer-type device attached to a vehicle’s ignition. A driver must blow into it to prove they haven’t been drinking for the vehicle to start. The device also requires “rolling retests” where the driver must blow into it periodically to show they haven’t begun drinking while they’re driving.
These devices can be crucial to regaining some independence after a DWI. However, before you decide to install one, it’s essential to understand how they work and the requirements associated with them. For example, they have to be taken to a certified servicer regularly for calibration.
It’s also important to know what kinds of things can cause an IID to malfunction and possibly falsely reflect a failed sobriety check. A violation can cause you to lose the right to have an IID. For example, environmental factors, like extreme temperatures, can be particularly problematic. Here in St. Louis, where we deal with scorching hot summers as well as freezing winters, it’s critical to know how to protect the integrity of an IID device and its results.
Protecting your IID from heat and sun
Heat and sun can seriously damage an IID. If you install one, you can help protect it by:
- Putting a sleeve or other covering over it
- Putting sunshades on your windows – especially your windshield – when you park your car outside
- Getting an IID with a removable mouthpiece so you can take it off when you leave your car
Extreme temperatures can also be tough on a car’s battery. That’s why it’s crucial to make sure your battery is charged. This is important no matter what the temperature is. If you don’t drive your vehicle regularly, at least start it up every couple of days to keep the battery from dying.
Special care is required when temperatures drop
When winter rolls around, cold temperatures can be just as damaging to your IID as heat can be. Just as when it’s hot, it’s wise to put a covering over your device to help keep it from freezing. Removing the (removable) mouthpiece is also a good idea.
If you’re unsure whether installing an IID is the right approach for you, it’s important to learn as much as possible about them. If you’re dealing with an IID violation, regardless of the circumstances, it’s wise to get legal guidance.
