Individuals accused of driving under the influence (DUI) offenses may struggle to control their alcohol consumption. Many people regularly overindulge. They may be vulnerable to criminal prosecution should they choose to drive after drinking.
Those facing DUI charges are at risk of a variety of different penalties. The courts can send someone to jail or require probation oversight. Drivers often have to pay large fines and cover court costs. They may also lose their driver’s licenses.
Even when a driver convicted of a DUI regains their license, they may still have restrictions on their driving privileges. They may need to install an ignition interlock device (IID) in any vehicle that they intend to drive. What do motorists need to know about IIDs and driving privileges after a DUI conviction?
Drivers may need to prove 24/7 sobriety
Whether or not a driver needs to install an IID is largely at the discretion of the judge hearing their case. IID requirements are more likely in cases where drivers have multiple DUI convictions on their record or when they had unusually high blood alcohol concentration (BAC) test results.
Judges may order certain DUI defendants to participate in the 24/7 Sobriety Program as a condition of regaining their driving privileges. While participating in the 24/7 Sobriety Program, motorists can only operate vehicles that have IIDs installed unless they wear devices that constantly monitor their BACs.
They have to perform a test every time they drive to establish that they are not under the influence. In fact, they likely have to perform a test twice a day even on days when they do not drive at all. The 24/7 Sobriety Program requires twice daily testing, typically at 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m.
While those requirements may seem frustrating to those with a recent DUI conviction, participating in the 24/7 Sobriety Program can help people get their lives back to normal as quickly as possible. The program has a high compliance rate, and many drivers are able to establish a paper trail showing that they have maintained consistent sobriety for months. They are then in the best possible position to regain their full driving privileges.
Of course, avoiding a DUI conviction and an IID requirement may be preferable to paying for an IID and conducting regular tests. Reviewing the situation leading to a DUI charge can help a driver pursue the best solution possible.