An ignition interlock is a device typically installed on the dashboard of a vehicle that requires a person to provide a breath sample by blowing into the device in order to start the vehicle. The ignition interlock device will prevent a vehicle from being started if the person blows into the machine a breath alcohol sample of greater than .05. Once the vehicle has been started, the device will randomly require the person to provide a breath sample. If a breath sample is not provided while the car is running the machine will log this and start an alarm (usually the horn will honk on the vehicle).
In Florida, if a person is convicted of driving under the influence (DUI), they will sometimes be required to have an ignition interlock device installed on their vehicle. This will depend upon what type of DUI they are convicted of:
First DUI: If one is convicted of a first DUI, and they blew (provided a breath sample into the Intoxilizer machine) below .20 and there was no minor in the car, the state will usually not require an ignition interlock device. The court is also not required to order an ignition interlock device.
First DUI where defendant blew over a .20 and/or there was a minor in the car: ignition interlock will be order for at least 6 months.
Second DUI: ignition interlock device will be ordered for at least one year
Second DUI conviction where defendant blew over a .20 and/or there was a minor in the car: ignition interlock device will be ordered for at least two years.
Third DUI conviction: ignition interlock device will be ordered for at least two years.
Soler & Simon is a law firm with extensive experience helping people who have been charged with DUI. Visit our DUI page for more information to help you with your DUI case.