Does My Ignition Interlock Device Track Me?
IIDs are highly effective tools for monitoring sobriety, ensuring safe driving, and helping individuals regain their driving privileges after a DUI. LifeSafer® Ignition Interlock is designed to help you navigate compliance requirements effectively. If you’ve been mandated to install an ignition interlock device (IID) or are considering one voluntarily, it’s natural to wonder what kind of information the device collects and who has access to it.
By design, they record data to assess compliance—but does this recording extend to tracking you? Whether you’ve just had one installed or are trying to understand the process, knowing these details can provide peace of mind as you move forward.
What Does an Ignition Interlock Device Track?
IID records detailed data related to your breath alcohol content (BAC) and your interactions with the device. Some state-mandated programs require extensive monitoring, while voluntary installations typically have simpler reporting processes. Here are the key pieces of information the device tracks:
- BAC Level: Each time you blow into the device, it measures your BAC. If your BAC exceeds the pre-set limit, the vehicle will not start.
- Test Frequency: Each breath test (start-up tests and rolling retests) is recorded to see whether the test was successful or failed.
- Tampering Attempts: If someone attempts to tamper with or disable the IID, these efforts are recorded.
- Real-Time Location Updates (required in some states): These devices often include GPS tracking and can notify compliance officers immediately in the case of a high BAC reading, a missed retest, or tampering.
- IID Cameras (required in some states): The IID camera ensures the person providing the breath sample is the individual attempting to start or operate the vehicle. It triggers photos only when you are taking the breathalyzer test. These images are securely stored and reviewed only if a compliance issue arises.
The primary goal is to ensure accountability, not continuous surveillance. These logs help enforce compliance and provide administrators with a clear understanding of a user’s adherence to their program guidelines. For assured privacy and transparency in your ignition interlock program, LifeSafer Ignition Interlock is a trusted and reliable choice, committed to addressing any data security and privacy concerns.
Who Has Access to Your IID Data?
Data from your IID is shared only with entities responsible for program compliance, ensuring transparency through reporting.
State Agencies or DMV
The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or a similar state authority overseeing ignition interlock programs receives data to ensure you’re meeting the requirements necessary to restore or maintain your driving privileges.
Courts or Probation Officers
If the IID is court-ordered, your probation officer or other court authorities will receive regular reports.
Substance Abuse Treatment Providers
Depending on your program, your results may also be shared with your treatment provider if they’re tasked with monitoring your progress.
You (for Voluntary Installations)
If you’ve chosen to install an IID voluntarily, for example, to ensure you or a family member doesn’t drink and drive, the device’s data is generally only accessible to you.
How Secure is IID Data?
Data security is a major concern for anyone using an IID. Rest assured, the information collected by these devices is protected by strict regulations at both state and federal levels. Here’s how your data is kept secure:
- Encryption: To ensure data protection, IID companies like LifeSafer use encryption and redundant security protocols to safeguard your information.
- Restricted Access: Only authorized personnel, such as your monitoring agency or IID service provider, can access your data. It is not made publicly available or shared with third parties.
- Compliance with Regulations: IID providers must adhere to rigorous state compliance standards, further protecting your personal and program data.
IIDs and Privacy in Balance
LifeSafer Ignition interlock devices are designed to balance public safety with user privacy. Features like real-time GPS and cameras help enforce accountability but are strictly regulated to maintain privacy where possible. With these measures in place, users can feel confident that their privacy is not being violated while using an IID. It’s important for individuals to understand that the purpose of these devices is to promote safe and responsible driving rather than to invade their privacy.