What’s an ignition interlock device?
- A small breath analyzer that requires a clean, alcohol-free breath sample by a driver in order to start a vehicle.
What’s the purpose of the device?
- Ignition interlocks are used across the nation as an alternative to license revocation.
- When the law takes away individuals’ licenses for a substantial period of time, life as they know it becomes difficult (i.e. supporting a job, family and normal lifestyle).
- Ignition interlocks are an alternative to revocation. They provide those convicted of a DWI with the opportunity to prove they can be responsible drivers again.
- That’s why Monitech calls it the ‘road to redemption.’
Which drivers are required to have an ignition interlock device by N.C. law?
- Those convicted of a DWI type offense with a 0.15 or higher BAC
- Those with a prior DWI conviction or record required to drive an ignition interlock-equipped vehicle
How long are individuals required to have an ignition interlock device?
- Terms range from one to 10 years depending on the number of convictions.
- Driving a vehicle without the required device is illegal and will result in a revocation of all rights to drive for at least one additional year.
What’s the one thing an ignition interlock device is looking for?
- Alcohol (also known as ethanol)
What’s required to start a car with an ignition interlock device?
- A clean, alcohol free breath sample.
What steps are involved in the process?
- A unique PIN to ensure that only the authorized driver is activating the test
- A clean, alcohol-free breath sample
- The driver must blow and hum continuously for eight seconds.
- After a completed and successful breath test, the driver can start the vehicle.
What happens if the device detects alcohol?
- If the device records a FAIL, a noncompliance report is sent to the DMV.
Can anything other than alcohol (ethanol) set off the device?
- A FAIL can occur due to mouth contaminants.
What are examples of mouth contaminants?
- Some foods and drinks other than beer, wine and liquor include alcohol type ingredients.
What should you do if your device detects a mouth contaminant?
- If a driver consumes a mouth contaminant before activating the device, it will result in a WARN or FAIL.
- The driver should wait five minutes, rinse thoroughly with water and retest.
By that time, any contaminant should have dissipated.
- A second test will represent your accurate BAC.
What does the Monitech device look like?
How do I get more information about ignition interlock devices?
Visit: https://monitechnc.com/faqs/