Jul 15, 2016
California Seeks to Expand Interlock Ignition Devices
For several years now thee counties in California have mandated that anyone convicted of a DUI be forced to install and use an Interlock Ignition Device (IID). For those readers who do not know what one is, it is a device installed near the ignition switch of a vehicle. The device has a tube through which the operator of the vehicle must blow to have his/her blood alcohol content measured. If their blood alcohol content is within legal limits, they are allowed to start their vehicle. The data from the three counties that have this law in place is very promising. It seems to be preventing about 1,900 DUIs a month. In fact, the data is so impressive that the legislature in California is considering expanding the law to cover the entire state. On May 31 the vote passed the California senate and the bill is now on its way to the assembly where it is also expected to pass. Remember, never operate a vehicle if you are under the influence of any substance.