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August 10, 2020

If you are facing a DUI charge, you are likely looking at the mandatory installation of an IID (interlock ignition device) in order to legally continue operating a motor vehicle. This IID device renders a vehicle unable to be started if the driver’s breath alcohol concentration exceeds the program limit. However, there’s more than meets the eye with an IID. Chances are, you have many interlock questions, which we are happy to answer.

What Do Installation and Maintenance Cost?

Since DUI laws, regulations, and restrictions vary from state-to-state, costs for installation and maintenance will also vary. Costs depend on several factors. These include the types of equipment, features, and whether reports need to be issued, along with how often the IID needs to be maintained. It’s common for IID providers to work with customers and courts to provide the best price and product for consumers.

What Are Some Causes For an IID Device Positives?

Most ignition interlock technology is very accurate at measuring and detecting different sources of alcohol in your system. Products like mouthwash or food extracts containing alcohol may set off an iid device leading to a lockout. Users are responsible for understanding what types of products or foods may cause a positive and important to note all results are reported including those in error. It’s recommended for users to refrain from smoking, eating, and drinking anything for at least 15 minutes before attempting to start their vehicle.

What About Routine Maintenance or Repairs on my Vehicle?

Another part of IID technology is its ability to recognize potential tampering to the device which will also cause an interlock lockout. It’s important that people who perform maintenance and repairs on their vehicles themselves to be aware of this fact and steer clear of the device. When taking your vehicle to a mechanic, be upfront and honest with this person and let them know you have an IID installed on your vehicle. As experts in the automobile industry, they see these devices often and will appreciate being given a head’s up.

Why Are Random Tests Necessary While Driving?

Random retest requirements may be frustrating for IID users, but necessary to ensure a sober driver is behind the wheel. Some IID users may think they can ask a friend or relative to provide a breath sample to pass a test to drive if they’ve been drinking. Blowing into someone else’s IID device could be considered tampering and may have serious consequences, like extending IID restriction period, license suspension, or even jail time.

What Else Can Cause an Interlock Lockout and Other Interlock Questions?

Testing positive for alcohol or tampering are not the only ways the IID device may prevent you from starting your vehicle.If a breath test is missed or failed, the violation will be recorded and reported to the monitoring authority. Interlock devices must be calibrated on a schedule depending on different state requirements. Missing one of these required service appointments may also lead to an interlock lockout.

BONUS: About an Interlock Lockout

Interlock lockout procedures have been implemented in order to promote safety and help drivers regain their freedom. The safety measures and protocols are there to protect everyone.

We hope this post answers some of your pressing interlock questions. If you have any questions about the installation or use of an IID device on your vehicle, please contact us today. As a leader in this industry, RoadGuard Interlock, LLC (DUI) is committed to providing our customers with the very best in support and customer service to ensure you’re not only comfortable using the device but also in understanding how it operates. We look forward to hearing from you.

*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.