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Ignition interlock device violations and their penalties

Ignition interlock device violations and their penalties

On Behalf of | Sep 27, 2022 | Drunk Driving Defense |

In Florida, people who are convicted of drunk driving can face many penalties. Some will be allowed to drive only if they have an ignition interlock device installed on their vehicle. The driver must blow into the machine so it can determine if they have alcohol in their system before the vehicle will start. It is also necessary for the driver to blow into the machine periodically while driving to ensure they have not been drinking since it started.

In some cases, the driver is alleged to have tampered with the device or found a way around it. Just as there are consequences for drunk driving, this too can cause the person problems. It is important to know how to build a defense against these accusations.

Understanding the law for tampering with or circumventing an ignition interlock device

Under state law, there are several methods for a person to drive without adhering to the basics rules for an ignition interlock device. Asking another person to blow into the device or having another person do so for the vehicle to start is one such illegal act. This would let the person whose license is restricted drive without doing what they are supposed to do under the terms of the device.

It breaks the agreement if a person lends or leases a vehicle to the driver who was supposed to blow into the device unless it too has an ignition interlock device. The person with the license restriction to drive a vehicle with the device is legally required to tell others who would lease or lend a vehicle about the requirement that they have an ignition interlock device.

A conviction can cause more problems and experienced help is needed

If convicted, a person can lose their driver’s license for one year from the date they were convicted. If they did not have a license at the time, they will also be fined at least $250 and up to $500 for every violation. Those unable to pay would have a lien placed on the vehicle itself.

Since the penalties can cause so many challenges in the person’s life with fines and the inability to drive, it is important to know how to create an effective defense. For this or any other type of drunk driving defense, it is wise to consult with those who are experienced in various areas of criminal law and vehicle-related offenses.