Los Angeles Ignition Interlock Program
The Core Functions of the Los Angeles Ignition Interlock Device Program
There are many harsh punishments that are handed out to DUI offenders charged with impaired driving in Los Angeles and, in such cases, it is always advisable to contact an experienced and reliable DUI Lawyer.
The Los Angeles Ignition Interlock Device Program and its Features
An ignition interlock device is intricately connected to DUI charges and convictions in Los Angeles, California. However, there are various laws governing the interlock installation, but first we will provide you with some details as to what the device is and how it actually works.
An ignition interlock device is a device that is wired to the ignition of a vehicle that requires a breath sample from the driver before the engine is started. If alcohol on the breath of the driver is detected by the device, the engine will not start. However once the vehicle is started and as the individual drives, the device will request periodic breath samples in order to ensure that the driver does not drink while driving and that there is absence of alcohol in the driver’s system. This way the driver is stopped from drinking alcohol and the percentage of alcohol in the driver’s breath does not cross a pre-programmed limit.
On July 1, 2010, an Ignition Interlock Device pilot program was implemented that requires all persons convicted of a misdemeanor for DUI of alcohol or drugs in violation of California Vehicle Code Section 23152, a felony DUI with injury in violation of Section 23153, or vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated in violation of California Penal Code Section 191.5(b) to install a certified Ignition Interlock Device in each vehicle that he/she owns or operates. Our team of DUI lawyers will guide you on every aspect of the ignition interlock device should you be charged and convicted of a DUI offense.
The Monitoring of Los Angeles Drivers With a Car Interlock Installation
The monitoring of an interlock installation is required in some cases where drivers perform random breathalyzer tests while on the road. The device will beep at periodical intervals, signaling the driver to give a breath sample.
If alcohol is detected in the breath sample, while the engine will not be turned off immediately while the vehicle is in motion, there will be a series of flashing lights and honking of the horn that will signal the driver to pull over. This is a precaution to ensure that the driver does not consume alcohol and is not under the influence after the vehicle has started.
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The Average Ignition Interlock Device Cost in Los Angeles, CA
The average ignition interlock device cost depends on a number of factors. Nevertheless, the overall cost in Los Angeles, CA, can be as little as $2.50 per day. However, some companies may charge an additional $75-$100 for the installation of the device. The device is a deterrent against those driving under the influence and hence the price is also kept within affordable limits. As per the California’s mandatory Ignition Interlock Device pilot program law Vehicle Code 23700 VC, if a person cannot afford the cost of a mandatory Ignition Interlock Device then they will only be required to pay a portion of the costs.
However, the cost of the car interlock will mainly depend on following factors:
- The period for which the device is installed in the vehicle.
- The location and jurisdiction where the conviction has taken place and the orders that have been issued for interlock installation.
- The extra features that you are required to have in the device, such as camera, GPS or real-time reporting.
- The year, make, and model of the vehicle that the car interlock will be installed in.
Common Circumstances if You Are Required to Install a Car Interlock in Los Angeles, CA
As per California Vehicle Code, impaired driving is termed to be instances when a person operates or is under care or control of a motor vehicle while his/her ability to operate the vehicle is impaired because of intake of either alcohol or drugs. Another related parallel offense is driving with BAC (Blood Alcohol Concentration) that exceeds 80mg of alcohol in 100ml of blood which works out to 0.08. Consequently, for the first DUI offense, there are several penalties that are imposed on a person including the installation of an ignition interlock device for a period of five months and the judge may increase this time to three years in addition to other restrictions such as attending scheduled DUI classes and meetings.
In the case of second DUI offense, an accused has to drive with an interlock device for 12 months and the same may go up to three years after the day of sentence for a second offense DUI. If convicted for a third DUI offense, a 24 month enrollment is mandatory in the interlock program provided the licence is restored and the same may go up to three years which depends upon the discretion of the judge.
The Many Aspects of the Ignition Interlock Program in Los Angeles, California
The Alcohol Interlock Program is for drivers who have been convicted of DUI under the California Vehicle Code and participating in the program is a requirement by the Law of California.
Being accepted into the program is not automatic, and apart from fees that have to be paid, an ignition interlock device has to be installed in the car. Moreover, if a California court has ordered you to install an ignition interlock device on your vehicle then you will have to go to an authorized installer to get it done. There are several private companies that are approved by the courts. Additionally, participants in the program have to go through Addiction Services for rehabilitation, counseling, and education. The program includes Driving While Impaired education program, risk assessment, evaluation for alcohol or drug use and other counseling sessions.
Los Angeles DUI & Ignition Interlock Installation
An interlock installation is a consequence of being charged with a DUI offense in Los Angeles, California. In such a case, you need to consult an experienced and reputable Los Angeles DUI Lawyer as soon as you are pulled over and charged. We can work out strategies in order to beat the DUI charges after carefully evaluating the circumstances of the arrest and assessing whether your rights have been fully respected. For professional help with DUI charges in Los Angeles, California, give us a call now.
Matthew Cohen is a top-rated defense attorney specializing in DUI and criminal defense cases in Los Angeles and the surrounding areas. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Binghamton University in New York, and his law degree from Pepperdine University in Malibu, California. During his tenure as a DUI defense lawyer, Matthew has represented thousands of defendants, where he has cultivated solid relationships with prosecutors and judges alike. When you hire Matthew Cohen to represent you, he will stand by your side every step of the way and help guide your case to a reasonable resolution as quickly as possible.
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