You can use an ignition interlock system to measure your sobriety before you get behind the wheel of a vehicle. Some drivers in California are ordered to install an ignition interlock device (IID) after a conviction for driving under the influence (DUI). Other drivers decide to install an IID on their own.
In either situation, you may be wondering if you can buy an ignition interlock system. While IIDs are generally leased – and this is frequently the cheaper option – you can purchase an IID outright in some circumstances. The Simmrin Law Group can help you review your choices for getting an IID in California if you call (310) 896-2723.
Getting an IID after a DUI Conviction
The court may order you to install an IID in your vehicle if you are convicted of a DUI in California. Currently, most drivers convicted of a DUI will be required to install an IID for a period of months or years.
During this period of time, you will lease your IID from the company that installed the device. You will need to pay a monthly fee for the operation of the IID. The cost for this payment averages around $2.50 a day.
You are not generally allowed to buy an IID in this circumstance, because of regulations set forth by the court.
For a free legal consultation, call (310) 896-2723
Purchasing an IID for Personal Use
Anyone in the state of California can buy an IID for personal use. Some drivers want to buy an IID if they are:
- Focused on recovering from an alcohol addiction
- Worried about a spouse driving while intoxicated
- Concerned that their child will drink and drive
An IID will not allow you to start your car if it detects alcohol on your breath. Many drivers see installing an IID as a great way to avoid DUIs and to keep their family safe. You may buy an ignition interlock system outright for personal use. You can also lease a system.
Note that, in many circumstances, leasing is the more affordable option. However, depending upon your situation, buying an IID may be the right choice for you.
Purchasing an IID for Commercial Use
Businesses in California sometimes want to purchase IIDs to install in company vehicles. This may be a good choice if you are worried that your employees are drinking and driving while on the clock. You can install IIDs in a few vehicles or all the vehicles owned by your company.
You may purchase IIDs for your commercial vehicles. The option to lease IIDs also applies to commercial clients. Note that when you set up commercial IIDs, you will receive regular reports about the findings of these devices.
Considering Additional Products to Measure Sobriety
IIDs are not your only option if you want to keep an eye on your sobriety before you get behind the wheel. Ignition interlock systems can be expensive and may be frustrating for some drivers. In these situations, you may want to consider a handheld breathalyzer or even a breathalyzer on your smartphone.
These tools can still report your blood alcohol content (BAC), to let you know if you are under the legal limit. However, they are not connected directly to your car. This means that:
- You don’t have to use them every time you drive
- Other people driving your vehicle don’t have to use them
- You can easily swift to a different test if you wish
These products may also be cheaper than buying an ignition interlock system outright.
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Focusing on DUI Charges in the State of California
As we mentioned, the court can order you to install an IID if you are convicted of a DUI in California. You must install an IID in each of your vehicles following most DUI convictions. The court generally requires you to lease your IID in this situation, which can be inconvenient for some drivers.
However, you may be able to avoid installing an IID if you contact a criminal defense lawyer in Los Angeles quickly after your arrest. The team at the Simmrin Law Group can work to build your defense after you call (310) 896-2723. We may be able to help you resolve DUI charges successfully, so you can move forward without installing an IID.
Speak to a DUI Lawyer About Ignition Interlock Systems
You can buy an ignition interlock system in some circumstances. Generally, you can only buy IIDs for personal or commercial use, not if you were convicted of a DUI. Find out more about your options for handling DUI charges by contacting the Simmrin Law Group.
Call (310) 896-2723 or fill out our online contact form to learn more. You can get a FREE case evaluation from our DUI lawyers in Los Angeles today.
Call or text (310) 896-2723 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form