If you are charged with driving while intoxicated (DWI) in Texas, you may face serious penalties if convicted. And one of them is installing an ignition interlock device (IID) on your vehicle.
Here is what to know about this penalty:
First-time offender
A judge can order a first-time offender with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.15 or more to install an IID. This is because this level of BAC can be considered an enhanced DWI regardless of the frequency of the offense.
Second-time or subsequent offenders
In Texas, repeat DWI offenders are typically ordered to install an IID on their vehicles.
Driving license suspension
If a driver’s license is suspended due to a DWI offense, but the driver wishes to continue driving during the period of the suspension, they can request the court to let them install an IID. The device should be installed for 90 days to one year. If a driver’s license is suspended due to a second or greater DWI offense, they must keep the device on their vehicle for six months to two years.
What about minors?
A driver under 21 arrested for DWI may also be ordered to install an IID on their car.
How does it work?
A driver ordered to install an IID usually submits a breath sample using an appropriate method before their car can start. If the device detects alcohol in their breath, the vehicle will not start. If no alcohol is detected, it will start. The device will then request random rolling retests in transit. Thus, if the driver had requested someone to take the initial test to start their vehicle, chances are they may fail the retest.
Being ordered to install an IID on your car can be stressful. Thus, consider legal guidance when charged with DWI to defend yourself and, in turn, avoid this penalty.