Ignition Interlock Device
Florida, unfortunately, is infamous for its harsh DUI laws. The penalties for driving under the influence are incredibly serious and could impact your life tremendously. One of these sentencing conditions for repeat offenders you may be subject to is the requirement to install an ignition interlock device or IID to your vehicle. The court requires convicted DUI offenders to install these devices if their DUI offense or criminal history meets certain criteria. Ignition interlock devices are a type of portable alcohol monitoring device (PAM) that’s attached to your car’s engine. The purpose of these machines is to deter offenders from drinking and driving in the future. The device does this by requiring a breath sample to start the car. If the driver provides a sample at .08 BAC or above, then the engine will automatically lock itself for a few hours. This stops the driver from driving under the influence and the machine records the high BAC percentage internally. Thankfully, you can avoid an IID and DUI conviction altogether if you have the right representation. That is why we highly encourage you seek the assistance of a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. An experienced lawyer can assess your charges and start building a defense then and there designed to undermine the prosecution.
DUI Attorney for Ignition Interlock Devices in Brooksville, FL
A conviction for repeat or aggravated DUI could result in additional sentencing conditions including the required installation of an ignition interlock device. Avoid these penalties altogether by fighting back with experienced and skilled legal representation from The Law Office of Ashley Aulls, P.A.. Ashley Aulls and his legal team have spent decades assisting clients who have been accused of all types of crimes including DUI and other alcohol or driving offenses. Set up your first consultation with The Law Office of Ashley Aulls, P.A. by calling our offices at (352) 593-4115. The Law Office of Ashley Aulls, P.A. accepts clients throughout the greater Hernando County, Sumter County, and Citrus County area including Brooksville, Spring Hill, Ridge Mano, Weeki Wachee Gardens, Timber Pines, Bushnell, Wildwood, Coleman, Center Hill, Inverness, Hernando, Homosassa, Floral City, Pine Ridge, Citrus Hills, and Lecanto. Information Center:
- What is an Ignition Interlock Device?
- Laws for Ignition Interlock Devices in FL
- How Much Does an IID Cost?
- Additional Resources
Ignition Interlock for DUI in Florida
Ignition interlock devices, often referred to as an IID, is a type of breathalyzer installed to your vehicle’s engine. Similar to a portable breathalyzer, an IID requires a breath sample. However, the difference is the device is hardwired to your engine and will not start your car without a sample. If you provide a sample at or above .08 % BAC, then the ignition interlock device will automatically turn off and lock your engine. The car will not start without a sample either, so the idea is you’ll be forced to drive sober if you want to drive. Some will attempt to bypass the IID by having a friend or family member “blow” into the device. Manufacturers of IIDs have anticipated this by implementing “rolling re-tests.” These are random sporadic tests that occur while you are driving in your car. You’ll be required to provide a breath sample to the IID to continue driving. Failure to provide a sample will cause the device to honk your horn incessantly, flash your lights, and put on your windshield wipers until you’ve pulled over.
Interlock Device Requirements in Florida
It’s highly unlikely a first-time DUI offender will be court ordered to install an ignition interlock device. However, if you’ve been convicted of a second or aggravated DUI, then the judge will automatically require you to install an IID as part of your sentencing. The purpose of the IID installation is to deter future drinking and driving as well as record any possible attempts to drink and drive. You must purchase and install an ignition interlock device after an aggravated DUI conviction. An aggravated DUI includes any drinking and driving offense involving a BAC of .15 or higher or if you had a child passenger in the vehicle at the time of the offense. If convicted of aggravated DUI, you’ll be required to have an IID installed on your car for at least 6 months. If it’s your second aggravated DUI, then the judge will enhance the term to 2 years. Repeat DUI offenders must also install an ignition interlock device. You will not be able to obtain a hardship or restricted license until you have a certificate proving the device was installed. The following are the IID requirements repeat DUI offenders must follow after conviction in the state of Florida.
- Second DUI Conviction –1 year at least
- Third DUI Conviction (outside 10 years of last offense) –2 years at least
- Third DUI Conviction (within 10 years of last offense) – No less than 2 years
- Subsequent DUI Conviction – 5 years at least
Ignition Interlock Device Cost Florida
Not only is an IID a hindrance on your life, but it’s not cheap. If the judge court orders you to install an IID, you’ll be required to upfront the cost of said installation yourself. You’ll also be obligated to pay monthly calibration fees on top of the initial installation. Installing and maintaining these devices can be very expensive. In some cases, the judge will have a portion of court fines account for the installation cost. It’s important you follow the state and court’s standards when choosing and installing your IID. To be court-approved, your IID must be provided through an ignition interlock company certified by the state. You can find a list of providers on the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FHSMV) site. All providers on the site have completed the requirements outlined by the National Highway Safety and Traffic Administration (NHTSA). IID installation companies will require some additional information to provide an accurate quote. Some companies will even offer a payment plan to customers who qualify. Most IID companies will typically require you to pay the following expenses:
- Installation – $75
- Monthly monitoring – $72.50
- Refundable deposit – $100; or
- Monthly insurance charge – $5
Additional Resources
Approved IID Companies in Florida | FHSMV – Visit the official website for the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles to look at their list of approved IID vendors in Florida. Here you can access the different IID companies that have been approved by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and are in compliance under Florida law. Answers to IID FAQ | FHSMV – Visit the official website of the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles and find answers to frequently asked IID questions available in English or Español. Find more information on IID violations, how accurate IIDs are, and what happens if your car is undergoing repairs while an IID is installed.
Brooksville Attorney for Ignition Interlock for DUI in FL
If you or someone you know has been charged with DUI, then it’s within your best interest to gain legal counsel. Get in contact with The Law Office of Ashley Aulls, P.A. for skilled and experienced representation from managing attorney Ashley Aulls. Attorney Aulls has practiced law since 1996. Let him act as your guide so you can avoid the statutory penalties of DUI. Don’t wait another moment for quality counsel. Call us now at (352) 593-4115 to set up your first consultation free. The Law Office of Ashley Aulls, P.A. accepts clients throughout the greater Brooksville, Hernando County, Sumter County, and Citrus County, Florida area.