Will I Have to Install an Ignition Interlock Device on My Vehicle

We get several calls each month from people that are facing Driving Under the Influence (DUI) charges in Los Angles County and wonder if they will have to install an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) on their vehicle if convicted. Unfortunately, the answer to this question is yes. This is because Los Angeles County is one of four counties selected to be part of the State of California’s IID Pilot Program, along with Alameda, Sacramento, and Tulare Counties.

This IID pilot program has been in effect in Los Angeles County since July 1, 2010, under California Vehicle Section 23700. It requires individuals convicted of a DUI under California Vehicle Code Section 23152 or 23153, or California Penal Code Section 191.5(b), to install the IID on every vehicle they drive or own. It is important to note that it only applies to DUI violations occurring after July 1, 2010. Thus, if an individual was arrested for a DUI before July 1, 2010, but convicted after this date, that individual would not have to install the IID.

The IID is connected to the vehicle’s ignition and requires a breath sample from the individual before the engine will start. If any alcohol is detected, the engine will not start. Also, the IID will request breath samples from the individual periodically while the vehicle is moving, to ensure that he or she does not have alcohol in his or her system while driving. This IID requirement will remain in effect until July 1, 2015, when the Pilot Program ends.

Also, Individuals convicted of a first-time DUI offense are required to install the IID for period of five months. Meanwhile, those convicted of a second and third-time DUI offense are required to install the IID for a period of 12 and 24 months, respectively. Lastly, individuals convicted of a forth or subsequent DUI offense are required to install the IID for a period of 36 months.

We hope this gives you some basic insight into the IID requirement for individuals convicted of DUI in Los Angeles County. If you or a loved one are facing DUI charges or any other type of criminal charges, call Wallin and Klarich today. Wallin and Klarich has a team of highly skilled, aggressive criminal defense attorneys ready to take your call 7 days week, 24 hours a day! Wallin and Klarich has been in the business of helping people facing serious criminal charges matters for over 30 years and we would like to help you with yours! A qualified, experienced criminal defense attorney from the firm will be able to evaluate your case when you call.