5 Reasons Why You Should Use An Ignition Interlock Device
Ignition interlock devices are widely used in Pennsylvania to reduce drunk driving cases. These devices are installed in your vehicle to measure your blood alcohol levels through a simple breath test. If alcohol is detected, the device will prevent you from starting your car.
Although this may seem like an extreme measure to reduce drunk driving, they have proven to be highly effective. According to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, over 78,000 impaired driving attempts were prevented in 2019 because of these devices.
Whether you are a first-time or repeat offender, ignition interlock devices can benefit you in more ways than one.
Here are five reasons why you should install one today.
1. Be Proactive
Just because you’ve never been charged with a DUI or DWI, doesn’t mean you shouldn’t install an ignition interlock device. It’s a very smart approach and will allow you to hold yourself accountable for your actions.
We all believe we’d make the responsible decision to not drive when we are drunk; however, that decision is hard to make when you are intoxicated. Having an ignition interlock device will make that decision for you, forcing you to seek other means of getting home safely.
2. Reduce Recidivism
Recidivism refers to the rate at which an individual who has been convicted is likely to re-offend. For example, Pennsylvania’s new DUI law for repeat offenders provides increased penalties for those that make the same mistake twice.
Ignition interlock devices are proven to reduce recidivism by 50 to 90 percent when installed on a vehicle.
This statistic not only includes first time offenders but also those who are considered as individuals that find it challenging to break the cycle of impaired driving. So, if you feel like you keep making the same mistakes, take a stand with an interlock device to prevent further damage to your record.
3. Prevent Others from Driving Your Car Intoxicated
If you are the sole owner of your vehicle, you are also responsible for anyone else who gets behind the wheel. With an ignition interlock device installed, anyone else who drives your car will have to use the device as well.
For parents, a drunk driving charge can leave a stain on their child’s record and could prevent them from future opportunities. It may be a good idea to purchase a device for your vehicle to prevent intoxicated driving when your teen drives your car. It may also be wise to install one in a vehicle you purchase for them while they live at home or before they leave for college.
4. Improve the Outcome of Your Case
When you are facing charges for DUI, you’ll be interested in helping your case have a positive outcome. The court looks favorably upon those who are actively seeking treatment like diversion programs or other means of preventing further infractions.
Ignition interlock devices can be very beneficial to your case if you agree to install one. The court understands the benefit that these devices have on recidivism and may offer leniency to your case.
5. Reduce the Financial Impact of DUIs
Drunk driving can be damaging to your reputation and your bank account. Understanding the true cost of drunk driving may make you more inclined to fight or prevent this charge entirely. Here’s what you need to know.
Legal Costs
These include all the costs associated with fighting your case. Examples of these are:
● Bail
● Court Costs
● Fines
Personal Costs
These fees are negative financial impacts that occur outside of court because of a DUI conviction. Examples of these include:
● Towing & Impound Fees
● License Reinstatement
● Insurance increases
● Substance Abuse Assessment
● Substance Abuse Treatment/Education
The cost of both types of fees will vary depending on your case. Generally, these fees can range anywhere from $10,000 to $14,000. This is not to mention the damage DUI charges cause to your record, which may limit opportunities in your future. For example, being able to make extra cash as a DoorDash driver.
Cost of Ignition Interlock Device
The installation of an ignition interlock device can range anywhere from $70 to $150. This device will also require upkeep that can cost you around $2 per day, a far greater alternative than being buried in legal fees.
As you can see, there are many benefits of installing an ignition interlock device. Whether it’s mandatory or
voluntary, installing this device will save you the money and stress involved with DUI charges.
By: Pennsylvania Attorney, Timothy Czekaj
We’re here to help!
Call 800-634-3077 today and a Customer Support Expert will be happy to help you get started. They are experts in the New York ignition interlock process and will get your interlock device installation scheduled, answer all your questions, and guide you through the process to get you back on the road quickly, safely, and legally. Ask them about our special offers.
About LifeSafer
LifeSafer is an industry leader in alcohol testing and monitoring. With over 30 years of experience in helping people like you successfully complete their alcohol programs, we offer a level of client value that no other provider can match. From superior customer care to our highly efficient analysis and reporting, you will receive an exceptional level of support. Our Authorized Service Providers focus on quality care to ensure we maintain the high standard of support our customers deserve.
Every situation and state is unique, please consult with your attorney or your state licensing authority to confirm your requirements and obligations.
The information provided in this blog does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice; instead, all information, content, and materials available on this site are for general informational purposes only. Information in this blog is current at the time of publication, but may not constitute the most up-to-date legal or other information.