OVI / DUI Ignition Interlock

Ignition Interlock For DUI / OVI Cases In Columbus And Central Ohio

The sentence for an Ohio DUI / OVI has various parts, and one part may be a requirement that you have an ignition interlock device installed in your vehicle. An ignition interlock device (IID) is a mechanism that measures alcohol in breath. If the device is installed in your vehicle, it has a mouthpiece like a straw, and you must blow into the mouthpiece before starting the vehicle. If the breath alcohol concentration is higher than a predetermined limit, the device prevents the vehicle from starting.

The ignition interlock can also be programmed to do a ‘rolling retest’. A ‘rolling retest’ requires the driver to deliver a breath sample, while operating the vehicle, whenever prompted by the device. If a breath sample is not given, or if the breath alcohol content is over the limit, the device will give a signal to stop the vehicle and may turn off the engine after the vehicle is stopped.

The data from the ignition interlock device is stored in the device’s memory and uploaded to the database of the device provider, either wirelessly or at the provider’s office. The data is made available to the court so the court officials can determine if there has been an interlock violation. For more information on interlock use in central Ohio courts, you may want to contact a Columbus, OH OVI / DUI lawyer.

Ignition Interlock Use And Violations

When an ignition interlock device is ordered, limited driving privileges are conditioned on using the device. In first offense DUI / OVI cases, the ignition interlock may be used for limited driving privileges. In addition, a first-time-offender may also be granted ‘unlimited driving privileges’ with an ignition interlock. In repeat DUI / OVI cases, the ignition interlock is mandatory. Ignition interlock use may also be ordered as a condition of limited driving privileges for Administrative License Suspensions.

If a judge orders you to use an ignition interlock device, you must have the interlock installed by an Ohio certified interlock provider. You will be required to pay an installation fee and a monthly rental fee. You must then take proof to the court that the device was installed before you receive driving privileges.

Violations of ignition interlock orders include operating a vehicle without the ignition interlock, circumventing or tampering with the ignition interlock, or having a prohibited concentration of alcohol in your breath, as measured by the ignition interlock device. If a judge determines there has been a violation of an ignition interlock order, the judge may terminate driving privileges or order the use of a Secure Remote Alcohol Monitoring device (S.C.R.A.M.). If the violation was related to unlimited driving privileges, the violation may also lead to imposition of a jail sentence.

Avoiding Ignition Interlock For DUI / OVI Charges

If you have been charged with DUI / OVI and hope to avoid using an ignition interlock device, as well as the other parts of the DUI / OVI sentence and secondary consequences, you may want to contest the DUI / OVI charge. For most cases, retaining an experience DUI / OVI lawyer improves the outcome of the case. Although there are many attorneys that will take your case, some have more expertise than others. To significantly improve your chance of avoiding a DUI / OVI conviction by getting the charge(s) reduced or dismissed, you should find a lawyer with the qualifications discussed on the ‘Hiring An Attorney’ page.

Attorney For DUI / OVI Charges In Columbus And Central Ohio

Our practice is focused on DUI / OVI defense, and we represent clients that are contesting DUI / OVI charges in Columbus and central Ohio. For more information about our practice, please see the firm overview. You can also read what our clients say and review our past case results. We limit the number of cases we accept so we can provide outstanding service to our clients. If you would like to discuss how we can help with your DUI / OVI case, EMAIL US or call us at 614-717-1177 to arrange a free consultation.