Ignition interlock devices require drivers to take a breath test to start their car. A reading over a .02 will stop the vehicle from starting and notify the court system. Since their launch, twenty-eight states and Washington D.C. have laws that require their use for those convicted of drunk driving.
Ignition Interlock Devices And Their Life-Savings Statistics
A recent 2017 study conducted by Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) revealed that participating areas of the country have reduced the rate of drunk driving deaths by seven percent. Nationwide, ignition interlocks have stopped more than 1.77 million drunk driving attempts, according to MADD.
A University of Pennsylvania study revealed a higher number, finding that all-offender ignition interlock laws reduced DUI-related deaths by 15 percent. With such positive results, one could say that the cutting-edge invention is the best thing since sliced bread.
Stay Sober And Away From Sandwiches, Sofrito And Scope
Ironically, a slice of bread and other yeast-laden foods like pastries, pizza and cinnamon rolls may set off the device. Even after eating spicy foods that create methane gas, drivers still run the risk of serious, unintended consequences.
While a simple mouth rinse will remove the residue, using alcohol-laden mouthwashes and breath sprays can cause ignition interlocks to react. Experts recommend non-alcoholic rinses or water and wait 15 minutes before using the car breathalyzer.
No matter how innovative, no device is infallible. However, the infallibility of ignition interlocks can result in serious criminal problems. Handling it without the help of a drunk driving defense attorney ignores both the complexity and potential consequences.
