Interlock System

If you’ve been convicted of driving while under the influence of alcohol, a judge may order the installation of an ignition interlock system in your vehicle.

This is something that could have been mandated in order to get a driver’s license reinstated, or it may be voluntary on your part to prove that you can stay sober while driving.

At any rate, these kinds of ignition interlock systems are governed by the state’s statues and can be found at RSA 265-A:36.

DWI lawyer Michael Anzalone can help you as you go through this process.

The ignition interlock system is connected to the dashboard of your vehicle. When you get into the car, you are required to blow into the system, which will measure alcohol levels on your breath. If you have an alcohol concentration greater than 0.02 percent, the device will not let the car start.

In many ways, this is a great option for someone who would otherwise be facing a driver’s license suspension. The system will allow you to keep driving _ though possibly with other restrictions _ as long as you are not drinking.

As you can imagine, there are a number of rules and regulations that apply to this particular system. For instance, if you attempt to tamper with the device in any way, you could be subject to both criminal and civil liability.

The system must also have a data recording system that meets the state’s criteria.

The system must be installed into any vehicle which you drive on a regular basis and it has to be installed for a set amount of time. For example, one to two years, or whatever your judge orders.

In the case of a juvenile driver, you would have to have the system installed for either 12 months or until they turn 21, whichever is the longer period of time.

As the offender, you will assume all the costs of the device and its operation. That includes installation and operation.

You will also have to be responsible for recalibrating the device within one month of installing it and continue to recalibrate according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. And you’ll have to provide reports to the court of all the data that the device logs.

In addition, state law requires that you provide to the court a certificate of installation.

Under the terms of the court agreement, you cannot allow someone else to breath into the device for you. And you can’t use a vehicle that doesn’t have the device installed.

If you violate the agreement you stand to face misdemeanor charges, a minimum fine of $500 and up to two additional years of using the ignition interlock system.

If you drive a motorcycle, or any other vehicle that you can’t install the device on, the court may require you to put a restraining device on it so you can’t operate the vehicle while your driver’s license is suspended.

If you have any additional questions you should reach out to The Law Office of Michael Anzalone for a free consultation.