After receiving a DWI offense in North Carolina, you will be required to install an ignition interlock device in order to get back on the road. When choosing which device is the right one, you’ll likely have many questions about how to choose.
Although it’s something you will be required to do in order to continue driving, it’s a journey you’re probably not all that excited about going on. Finding answers to some of your questions will help give you the knowledge and perhaps also some peace of mind.
So let’s see if we can’t answer some of your questions:
What is an ignition interlock device?
An ignition interlock device (IID) is a handheld car breathalyzer that measures the amount of alcohol in the user’s breath. Installing this device is a requirement following a drunk driving offense. In the simplest terms, an interlock is a breathalyzer that’s installed in a vehicle to prevent the driver from starting the vehicle until a breath alcohol test is successfully taken.
Monitech is a pioneer in ignition interlock technology, created the first North Carolina ignition interlock program with the NCDMV, and continues to be North Carolina’s ignition interlock leader 30 years later. Our IID is the smallest, most discreet device on the market. It also comes with industry certifications, which just means it’s reliable and accurate-something you will absolutely want in your interlock device. You don’t want technology that consistently malfunctions or registers false positives.
How do I get one installed in my car?
To have your interlock device installed, you’ll need to contact an authorized company, like Monitech. To find a location near you, simply call our Customer Support Center at 800-521-4246 or look on the website. We have 31 convenient locations across the state.
Will it damage my car in any way?
At Monitech, all of our Service Centers are company-owned, which means all Authorized Service Technicians are Monitech employees. One of these thoroughly trained technicians will install your device. Your vehicle will not be damaged in any way. When you complete your program, the technician will remove the device and return your vehicle to its original state.
My ignition interlock program is for one year. How do I get help along the way if I need it?
It’s very important to choose a company that is going to provide you with the knowledge you need to complete your interlock program successfully. You want a company that will be there for you anytime you need them to answer questions or help you if you are having difficulty using your device.
Even more, you want to be able to talk to people who are kind and respectful of what you are going through. At Monitech, our Customer Support Center is open 24/7 every day of the year. Our experts are trained to respectfully guide you through your program from beginning to end.
Once the interlock is installed, how often will I need to go in for calibration appointments?
North Carolina requires periodic inspection and calibration by a Monitech Authorized Service Provider. These appointments will be every 30 days during which the technician will also download information from the device and transmit it to the appropriate monitoring agency.
When your device is first installed and at each calibration appointment, the next service date will be input into the device. Depending on your device type, several days prior to a service appointment, the device will remind you of an upcoming appointment. It’s very important that you make every calibration appointment for your device to remain in compliance with your interlock program.
What should I do if I can’t make a calibration appointment?
First of all, if you know you are going to miss an appointment, be proactive, and call the Customer Support Center at 800-521-4246 to let them know before you actually miss the appointment. They will help you work through your particular situation so that you remain compliant with your program. Please be aware if notice is not given more than 48 hours ahead of time, you may be charged a missed appointment fee.
Aren’t all ignition interlock devices the same?
That’s an excellent question. There are two critical aspects to consider when selecting your provider. First, not all devices have the same technology built into them. They may perform similar functions, like keeping the car from starting if alcohol is detected, but the technology built into them is company-specific.
Monitech has been an industry leader and provider of services in North Carolina for over 30 years. Our products were designed with the NCDMV specifications in mind since we helped develop the first interlock program.
Second, is the quality of service and expertise you can depend on as you make your way through your program. This starts with the very first call you make to our Customer Support Center to get the device installed. It continues through your monthly maintenance appointments, and eventually, you will successfully complete your interlock program and the unit will be removed. It’s important to connect with a company that will have your success as their top priority. That’s our goal at Monitech.
Give us a call today to talk to one of our Customer Support Experts 800-521-4246. They will answer all your questions, get your installation appointment set up, and help get you back on the road.
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