Georgia’s DUI laws leave little room for tolerance, comprising punitive consequences to ensure drivers who get behind the wheel while intoxicated are held accountable.
The state law requires that motorists don’t exceed a blood alcohol content of 0.08 percent. Exceeding this BAC limit could attract monetary and administrative penalties, which include revocation of their driving license. However, an offender may be eligible for restricted driving privileges, provided they install an ignition interlock device (IID).
In essence, an IID is a breathalyzer device installed in the individual’s vehicle and requires the driver to submit a breath sample before they start the vehicle. If it registers alcohol, the device will hinder ignition, and the vehicle won’t start.
The fees and disruption of an IID installation on your vehicle will undoubtedly affect you long after a DUI arrest. Contact Moffitt Law, LLC to request a Carrollton, GA, DUI defense lawyer’s assistance in fighting the charges.
How Much Does an Ignition Interlock Device Cost in Georgia?
There’s no standard cost of ignition interlock devices in Georgia, and the amount can vary depending on several factors. Rather, individuals convicted of DUI must pay for the installation and monthly leasing fees of the IID.
Installing this device might cost between $70 and $100, while the lease cost can range from $2.50 to $3.50, billed daily.
Several factors affect the total cost of an IID in Georgia, including the include:
- The duration you or your loved one is required to install the device
- The provider
- The required level of monitoring
- Any repairs or calibration
Failing to pay the required fees can result in additional penalties like license suspension or revocation. Therefore, drivers charged with DUI must carefully consider all costs associated with installing the breathalyzer.
Choosing a reputable provider with affordable pricing and reliable service is also important. So contact your attorney if you feel stuck or want to help your loved one.
What are the Requirements of an Ignition Interlock Device in GA?
State laws have several requirements for IID installation, including the following:
- State-approved provider: A provider approved by the state must install the IID. This requirement ensures proper installation in line with the state’s technical requirements.
- Payments: The motorist charged with DUI is responsible for paying for IID installation and the monthly monitoring fees. The amount can vary based on the provider and the duration the device has to be installed.
- Compulsory breath sample: The driver must blow into the IID and provide a breath sample before they start the vehicle. If it detects alcohol in the driver’s system, the vehicle will not start.
- Regular IID calibration and maintenance: The provider must calibrate and maintain the IID regularly to maintain its optimal functionality. This includes checking the device’s accuracy, repairing, and replacing components where necessary.
- Compliance with IID requirements: Drivers looking for IID must comply with all conditions of their DUI sentence. For instance, they may have to keep the device for the entire sentence length, follow all provider instructions, and always submit required monitoring or testing.
- Installation duration: The duration of IID installation will depend on the individual’s DUI sentence. Repeat offenders may have to install the device for up to four years.
Failing to comply with these requirements can result in additional penalties. For example, you or your loved one may face license suspension or revocation, hefty fines, or jail time.
What Happens if the Ignition Interlock Device Registers Alcohol?
If an ignition interlock device (IID) registers alcohol, the consequences can vary depending on the circumstances.
If the charged driver attempts to start their vehicle with alcohol in their system, the device will prevent the vehicle from starting. The device will also record the event and report the incident to the appropriate authorities. Consequently, the driver can face additional penalties, such as license suspension or revocation.
If the IID detects alcohol during rolling retests while driving, it will initiate an alarm, requiring the driver to pull over and turn off the vehicle. Again, the device will record the incident and report it to authorities, which can lead to additional penalties.
Repeated violations of IID requirements, including alcohol detections, can result in extended IID installation periods, increased monitoring requirements, and potentially even jail time.
It’s important to remember that an IID is a serious requirement for DUI offenders, and failure to comply with all its rules and regulations can lead to severe legal consequences.
Reach Out to A Reliable DUI Attorney
Whether you’re following a court order or want to install the device to avoid license suspension, partnering with a reliable attorney focused on DUI cases can relieve you of baggage. So don’t fight alone if you or someone you know needs this relief. Instead, reach out to our seasoned team at Moffitt Law, LLC for guidance.
Ignition Interlock Device FAQs
How long must I install the IID?
There’s no maximum duration for installing an ignition interlock device. Rather, the installation duration will depend on your sentence.
How accurate are IID devices?
IIDs are designed as highly accurate and reliable devices. They leverage advanced technology to measure the driver’s blood alcohol concentration from their breath. However, like any technology, the devices can sometimes produce false readings or errors. To minimize this risk, certified technicians must regularly calibrate and maintain the device.