How You Can Prevent Having to Install the IID System After a DUI
There are legal ways you can fight to get out of the igniton interlock device requirement, but the most effective methods that work to avoid an IID are always utilized soon as possible after a recent DUI occurs.
In 2024, all 50 states and Washington D.C. have ignition interlock laws, and most of them require the interlock for first-time offenders.
However, many states offer exemptions. For example, in Colorado, you can apply for an interlock exemption if you:
- Do not own a vehicle
- Do not have access to a vehicle where you live
In several other states, individuals with incomes below 200% of the poverty level can apply for a hardship exemption to prevent an IID requirement.
Additionally, the state may grant you a medical exemption if you can provide medical documentation that you have a medical condition that would prevent you from being able to use the device properly, and safely.
Other ways to avoid an ignition interlock device punishment after a DUI, DWI charge include:
- Utilize a free arrest review so a valid defense can be found early to fight the interlock installation.
- Successfully winning your license suspension review hearing, which if you lose often requires an IID as a condition to drive on a restricted hardship license.
- Having a medical condition that could be a danger to your health by having to repeatedly blow into the interlock device while driving.
To remove a breath alcohol ignition interlock device after one has already been installed, you need verbal permission from the Secretary of State.
Beat the Car Breathalyzer: How to Ditch the Ignition Interlock After a DUI Arrest
Dealing with a DUI charge is stressful enough, but the prospect of an ignition interlock device (IID) strapped to your car can feel like a kick in the teeth. These breathalyzer-on-wheels restrict your freedom, drain your wallet, and scream “DUI offender” to the world.
But before you resign yourself to months of blowing into plastic tubes of a car breathalyzer, take a deep breath. As top DUI lawyers with years of experience beating the IID rap, our most experienced local attorneys are here to tell you: there’s always hope to successfully fight getting an ignition interlock device in your car after a recent DUI, DWI arrest.
This guide will equip you with the knowledge and strategies to fight back against the local IID requirement, even if you think your case is open and shut. We’ll delve into the legal landscape, explore winning defense tactics, and even showcase real-life examples of how Board Certified lawyers for DUI interlock defemse helped clients ditch the IID.
7 Top Proven Ways How to Get Out of Ignition Interlock Device
1. Challenge the Stop or Arrest:
- Was the initial traffic stop justified? Were your rights violated during the arrest? If the foundation of the case is shaky, your lawyer can argue for dismissal of the charges, eliminating the IID requirement altogether.
- Case Example: Our client, Ryan, was pulled over for “swerving slightly.” He wasn’t driving erratically, but the officer smelled alcohol. We challenged the stop as pretextual (a fishing expedition) and got the charges dismissed. No DUI, no ignition interlock required!
2. Negotiate a Reduced Sentence:
- Prosecutors often have leeway in plea bargains. A skilled DUI lawyer can negotiate for a lesser charge or lighter sentence that doesn’t include the interlock device.
- Case Example: Mia, a first-time offender with a low BAC, faced a mandatory IID. Through negotiations, we secured a reduced charge of reckless driving, eliminating the IID requirement and saving Mia months of inconvenience.
3. Challenge the BAC Evidence:
- Was the breathalyzer properly calibrated? Were there any issues with the testing procedures? Challenging the breathalyzer results can cast doubt on the entire case and potentially lead to dismissal or a reduced charge.
- Case Example: Greg, a diabetic, blew high on a breathalyzer due to ketones in his system, not alcohol. We presented expert medical evidence to challenge the test results, and the charges were ultimately dropped. No DUI, no IID.
4. Seek Early Termination of IID Requirement:
- Some states allow for early IID removal under certain conditions, such as completing alcohol treatment programs or demonstrating a sustained period of sobriety.
- Case Example: Paul, a responsible family man, completed an intensive alcohol treatment program and maintained a clean record for 6 months. We petitioned the court for early IID removal, and Paul was granted his freedom back without an interlock device required.
5. Explore Alternative Programs:
- Even if a full dismissal isn’t feasible, you might be able to negotiate for an alternative program that doesn’t involve an IID. Some states offer restricted driving permits, limited hardship licenses, or community service programs as alternatives to the interlock device.
6. Highlight Hardship and Rehabilitation:
- Judges are often swayed by compelling arguments about the negative impact an IID would have on your life. Demonstrate the hardship it would cause on your job, family, or medical needs. Showcase your commitment to rehabilitation through programs and counseling.
7. Leverage the Power of a Local DUI Lawyer With Experience Preventing Interlock Punishments:
- Facing a recent DUI can be overwhelming, and the cost of a lawyer might seem daunting. But remember, a good lawyer is an investment in your future. Fighting to get out of the IID requirement can save you thousands in installation, calibration, and monitoring fees over the long run – that total an estimated $2,000 under current 2024 interlock prices for one year of use.
Don’t Let Cost be a Roadblock
We understand even the thought of legal fees can be nerve-racking, especially after a DUI arrest. But remember, investing in a skilled lawyer or even utilizing a free attorney review of the arrest for expert legal advice can save you money in the long run.
A successful defense could mean avoiding hefty interlock installation and calibration costs, not to mention potential license suspensions and higher insurance premiums.
Many top DUI lawyers offer flexible payment plans and even free consultations. Don’t let financial concerns prevent you from exploring your own best legal options to successfuly fight getting an ignition interlock device system in your vehicle.
I had an IID installed less than a week ago & I got locked out already and the people at intoxalock do NOT help u at all!!!!! I blew .04 then literally 1 minute later blew . 019!!!! The interlock device can NOT be accurate. I’m having it removed and I am willing to try ANY other IID company. Glad to find some free legal help here at least since interlock companies do not help at all.
Glad we can help you Steven. There are a few interlock companies you can check out. Ignition interlock can be a racket and most of them could care less what you have to go through.
For the past year I have had an Intoxalock ignition interlock device for a DUI. I have had nothing but problems for a whole year with them charging me for unauthorized starts, violations, and lockouts. Every time I call that interlock company and get a representative on the line they do not help me whatsoever. I spoke with Juanita Fox and she is the supervisor for Intoxalock. She said that she would help me if I ever had any problems or issues going forward.
I have tried several times to call her and get the latest issue that I’ve had which is it said that I had a lockout on my car last week and I went and got it recalibrated and I was hoping that it fixed it but it did not. And talks a lot charged me $50 for a lockout that I was never locked out of and I just got home and it did the same thing to me again today. So now I’ve got to go back to Line-X of Greenville and get this thing recalibrated again and I have been doing this for an entire year. I’ve had nothing but problems and no one at Intoxalock helps anytime you call them to get help with any of the issues that you’re having they charge you $50 or $60 until you that it’s your fault and I simply can’t keep doing this.
If you could please contact somebody and Intoxalock and or call me and see if we can try to figure out how to get this issue resolved because it seems like every week or every other week I’m having to pay an extra $50 or $60 that I don’t have I’m having to go up to Line-X of Greenville and get my machinery calibrated that I shouldn’t have to do but every 2 months once every 2 months I need help please. I have not violated not one time I have not been locked out of my car not one time and talks a lot has all of my records they can show that I’ve not violated or been locked out of my car but yet I keep getting charged $50 here $50 there on top of the bill I’m already paying.
I would like to somehow get this interlock device removed from my vehicle but I’m supposed to have this thing for another year if you could please help me with this situation or please refer me to somebody that can help me please thank you.
I got the 2nd message in a week this afternoon coming from work saying interlock violation, lockout on 4 days! They said that got this mess fixed last week. Here it is a holiday weekend and I have to work. How am I supposed to fix this?? I can’t be off work or I lose my job. This DUI interlock device is really getting insanely ridiculous! HELP!!!
I have the exact same problem. I feel like I’m getting robbed by intoxalock and can’t pay the courts ahhh lol. Seriously though I spend more on this device than rent. Being broke and anxious about losing my job I’m on the verge of crime or suicide. I turn back to good old alcohol to calm me down.
I like having a safety device on my car to stop me from driving in a drunk state. I just don’t want to lose all my money and job because I failed a breath test before starting the car or warm up the car in the winter. Beep beep you owe the interlock company another 125 dollars for leaving your vehicle for 5 minutes. Idk what is going to happen.
I was arrested for DUI because I overdosed on heroin while sitting in the parking lot of a church. I do not drink alcohol nor had any alcohol in my system. Would I still have to get the interlock in my car?
Yes most likely you will. Depends on the state. What state was your arrest?
What happens with the ignition interlock device requirement for DUI if you do not own a vehicle. I was driving a friends car?
It will depend on the state. In most cases the DMV will not reinstate a license without proof of ignition interlock.
I got a DUII on July 4th a couple years ago that will likely require me paying the cost and installation of the ignition interlock device unless a good attorney near me can help me avoid the interlock. So what is really strange about it is… #1. I was not driving the vehicle. # 2. I did not own a vehicle at that time. #3. I did not even have a key for the vehicle.
So this is what happened. The state police officer told me that I was seen driving under the influence. He did not ask. The officer then told me he was giving me a sobriety test. He did not ask for my consent.
And finally, he did not give me a breathalyzer test for more than an hour after waking me up and harassing me. Also to top it off, the officer took me to another city and I was dropped in a drunk tank – without even giving me my right to a phone call. Does this sound remotely legal?
If I do still end up having to get the IID put in my car, I need a lawyer nearby experienced with interlock laws or a local IID provider who can inform me if financial assistance is available if I cannot afford the device fees at this time. It is my understanding that if my state does not help lower the costs of using an ignition interlock machine, that in order for me to legally drive my car, it is only allowed by the installation and monthly maintenance updates of the device.
Do I still need an ignition interlock device installed for a wrongful DUI charge or can I get out of the requirement of having to use it with lawyer help? I appreciate the free ignition interlock legal advice asap.
No you will not have to install the ignition interlock device if the charges are dismissed. That is why having an experienced DUI lawyer will fight the state issued license suspension right away. Then getting the DUI charges dismissed is the second battle in court. If you cannot afford an attorney then you have to go with a public defender for DUI which they won’t even help you fight the state issues suspension.
Ignition interlock device cost near me is just like every state – the pricing is ridiculously expensive with every interlock company around. This article is so true how there is no such thing as a low cost or cheapest ignition interlock device after a DUI. The only real solution is to get out of the installation requirement by fighting charges early on.
Someone called in an anonymous report to police and the cops pulled me over in a fast food drive thru and arrested me for DUI. I just wish I knew how the ignition device laws work from the start of my case so I could avoid getting the interlock in the first place.