Ignition Interlock Device Installation After a Wisconsin DUI

 Posted on January 24, 2019 in DUI/OWI

In an effort to reduce the number of people who choose to drink and drive, many states - including Wisconsin - have adopted a number of laws and regulations over the decades to deter people from breaking the law. Most states now have in place some version of a program that requires the use of an ignition interlock device (IID) in the vehicles of DUI offenders. In Wisconsin, 2010 marked the first year mandatory IID requirements went into effect. IIDs are now required for all repeat OWI offenders, all chemical test refusals, and all first-time DUIs in which the driver’s blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is more than .15.

What is an Ignition Interlock Device?

An IID is a small electronic device that is wired into your vehicle’s ignition system. Before you are able to start the vehicle, you must blow into the device, which will then determine your BAC. In Wisconsin, if your BAC is over .02, the vehicle will not start. The device will allow you to have three attempts in five minutes for each requested breath sample. After a vehicle starts, the device will prompt you for other samples at various intervals while the engine is running. The date, time, and BAC of each and every sample is recorded and stored.

IID Requirements

Wisconsin law states that every person who is required to use an IID must install one in every vehicle owned or driven by the offender. The only exception to that rule is if a vehicle is exempted by a judge. Any driving privileges that the offender maintains are restricted to only IID equipped vehicles. IIDs will be ordered for a minimum of one year. If the offender is caught trying to remove, disconnect, tamper with, or circumvent the IID, an extra six months will be added to the IID order.

Contact a Waukesha County DUI Defense Attorney

DUIs are serious charges that can severely impact your life. If you are convicted of a DUI, you could be facing jail time, costly fines, and the loss of your driver’s license. When your driving privileges are reinstated, you may be required to install an IID in your vehicle. At the Bucher Law Group, LLC, we understand that OWI charges can drastically affect your ability to perform normal daily tasks, which is why we will fight for the best outcome possible for you. Our skilled Waukesha, WI OWI defense lawyers will help you build a strong defense. Call our office today at 262-303-4916 to schedule a free consultation.

Sources:

https://wisconsindot.gov/Pages/dmv/license-drvs/susp-or-rvkd/owi.aspx

https://wisconsindot.gov/Documents/about-wisdot/who-we-are/dsp/iid-faq.pdf