Tougher DUI Laws: Ignition Interlocks Required for First-Time Offenders
The state of Pennsylvania is among the states that will require first-time DUI offenders to use ignition interlocks. This requirement came into effect in 2016, after Gov. Tom Wolf signed the bill into law.
PA has taken many steps to address the problem of intoxicated driving. Saturation patrols and sobriety checkpoints have been implemented. Drivers with .08% BAC or more are charged with DUI. Installing ignition interlocks on the vehicles of DUI offenders has been one of the most aggressive steps taken towards drunk drivers.
Let’s discuss it and find out why a Pittsburgh DUI attorney can help.
Explaining an Ignition Interlock
Ignition interlocks are breathalyzers installed in vehicles to prevent drunk driving. To start the car, drivers must provide a breath sample, which is analyzed for alcohol content. If the sample is clean, the interlock allows the vehicle to start.
Common problems haven’t disappeared even if interlock devices become more advanced. The device will still make mistakes, disabling you from starting the car, especially if you –
- Eat food that contains alcohol
- Rinse your mouth with mouthwash that contains alcohol
- Have an abnormal breathing pattern due to exercise, running, and so on.
Therefore, to challenge the charges, you need a Pittsburgh DUI attorney. We will discuss further why fighting your DUI charge will also save you expenses.
A Closer Look at The Ignition Interlock Legislation – SB 290 & HB 278
Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) joined Representative Keith Greiner and Senator Joh Rafferty to gain support for their legislation. Here’s what SB 290 & HB 278 proposed:
- Installing ignition interlocks on vehicles whose drivers had .10% or above BAC during their first DUI offense.
- Subsequent and second-time DUI offenders already have to use an ignition interlock for a year. Their licenses are restricted during this period as well. The bill was introduced in the Pennsylvania State Senate, which also demanded similar penalties for first-time DUI offenders.
Proponents of the bill argued that installing the interlock device on first-time offenders’ vehicles will lower drunk driving incidents and rates. It would also lower the drunk driving fatalities, which they supported with statistics from MADD. This study showcased how interlock devices have prevented nearly 1.77 million DUI attempts, which has saved immeasurable lives.
Criticisms
Opponents argued that existing penalties for first-time drunk driving offenses were already harsh enough, and that ignition interlocks might unfairly target those who don’t pose a repeat offense risk. They also pointed out the potential flaws in interlock design, raising concerns about effectiveness and fairness.
The ignition interlock requirement not only adds a restrictive measure but also a significant financial burden. Installation costs around $100, and monthly lease fees range from $50 to $100! For first-time DUI offenders, who are already subject to severe penalties, this added expense makes the consequences even more stringent.
How Can An Attorney Help?
If you’ve ever been pulled over on suspicion of DUI or involved in a crash caused by alcohol, you need an experienced Pittsburgh DUI attorney.
At Logue Law Group, our experienced attorney has helped many people with DUI charges. They understand the hassle and pain that comes with a DUI offense.
While interlock devices can save lives, it’s still result in unnecessary penalties. With a knowledgeable Pittsburgh DUI attorney, you stand a chance to get a better outcome. For a free consultation, call us at 844.PITT.DUI or reach out at sean@seanloguelaw.com.