Why Driving Without Interlock Device is not a Good Idea

Research confirms that many people are caught offending DUI laws. If you get caught, you will be ordered to install an ignition interlock device on your car. However, you may be tempted to try driving without interlock. Or perhaps you may want to borrow a friend’s car that isn’t installed with one. Either way, you will want first to consider the complications and trouble you may be putting yourself in. Often, driving without an interlock device will end up costing you far more than simply getting an ignition interlock device installed.

What is the Role of an Interlock Device?

An ignition interlock device prevents the car from starting if your breath alcohol concentration exceeds the preset level.  After blowing into the device’s mouthpiece, it measures your breath alcohol concentration (BrAC). The interlock device will temporarily lock your vehicle’s ignition system if you are above the limit. The device also requires random retests after you begin driving to guarantee that you won’t drink after the initial test.

Most states have ignition interlock device laws in place to ensure that offenders are required to obtain a device after a drunk driving offense. Generally, first-time offenders are required to install interlock devices into their cars. If you have been ordered to install, it is going against the law for you to drive without an interlock. You will be required to drive only vehicles equipped with the device, and this is true even if it’s a friend’s or company’s car.

Here are five serious problems you will want to consider before even thinking of driving without an ignition interlock device:

Possible Consequences of Driving without Interlock Device

1. You will have to pay fines.
   Studies show that many people end up not following court orders of driving with an interlock device, which results in dire penalties such as high fines. These fines can go up to $7000, but the most common is $5000. Why spend such a substantial amount for not complying? That money can be saved by just installing the device.
2. Your license suspension will last longer.
   You would not want your license suspension period to be longer than the initial one. But if you end up on the wrong side of the law, you risk a lengthier suspension. For example, in states such as Texas, subsequent offenders can get up to 5 years of license suspension. This is a very long time for you to be restricted from your driving freedom, which could have adverse effects on your family, income, and overall quality of life.
3. Your vehicle may be impounded.
   If the authorities catch you driving your car without an interlock device while having a suspended license, your vehicle may get confiscated. If it’s not your car (e.g., you’re driving your friend’s car), this fact won’t deter the police from impounding. Often, it is expensive to get a car out of impound and it might not even be possible if you have to wait a certain time period.
4. You risk jail time.
   In some states, if you get caught driving without an interlock device while your license is suspended, you might be heading for prison. Losing your freedom is much more than losing your driving privileges. Don’t put your independence in jeopardy. Instead, get an ignition Interlock device installed as soon as possible.
5. You will lose some of your rights.
   Driving without an interlock device and getting caught means losing some of your privileges. If you continue offending ignition interlock device laws, you might lose the right to vote, right to own certain types of businesses.

How do I Get the Right Ignition Interlock Device Installed?

You got a DUI. It’s embarrassing and stressful. It’s challenging dealing with it. But you will get through this. And you will be okay. At RoadGuard Interlock, LLC (DUI) we know because we have helped a lot of folks through this exact situation. Let us get you driving again.

For over two and half decades, our goal has been to help customers regain their independence by getting them back on the road safely, quickly, painlessly, and affordably. Find a RoadGuard Interlock location today to get your interlock device installed. Don’t drive without an interlock device.

*Links to any third-party websites herein are provided for your reference and convenience only. RoadGuard Interlock did not create nor develop and does not own any such third-party websites. RoadGuard Interlock does not endorse nor support the content of, nor any opinions stated in any such third-party website links. RoadGuard Interlock is not responsible for the content of any third-party website or its accuracy or reliability. Nothing contained in this article or in any such third-party website shall be considered legal advice or be deemed to constitute legal advice. For any legal advice concerning a DUI arrest, charge, conviction, or consequences thereof, you should contact an attorney of your choice.