Drivers convicted of driving under the influence (DUI) in California face a number of harsh penalties. You may be required to pay fines, spend time in jail, and attend alcohol-treatment programs after a DUI conviction. You may also have to install an ignition interlock device (IID) after a DUI.
California expanded the use of IIDs in 2019. Find out what DUI charges require the installation of an IID right here. You can also learn more about how IIDs are installed, the costs for installation, and the amount of time you will need to maintain an IID in your vehicle with the Simmrin Law Group.
California’s Laws on IIDs and DUI Convictions
IIDs have been in use throughout California for a number of years. Drivers who install an IID after a DUI arrest are often allowed to continue driving, despite their license suspension. This means that, if you are convicted of a DUI, you may continue to operate your vehicle by installing an IID.
Note that in order to benefit from an IID, you will have to install the devices in all vehicles you operate and all vehicles registered in your name. Additionally, you will have to allow an authorized representative to install and calibrate the device.
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DUI Charges That Require the Installation of an IID
California adjusted regulations surrounding IID installation in 2019 with Senate Bill 1046. According to this bill, you may be required to install an IID if you are convicted of even a first-time offense for driving under the influence. Repeat DUI convictions and convictions for a DUI causing injury also lead to the installation of an IID in California.
The amount of time you are required to keep an IID in your vehicle varies based on the charges you are facing. You may need to maintain an IID for:
- Six months for a first DUI conviction
- One year for a second DUI conviction or for a DUI causing injury charge
- Two years for a third DUI conviction or a second DUI causing injury charge
- Three years for a fourth DUI, any subsequent DUI conviction, or a third DUI causing injury charge
The current regulations set forth by Senate Bill 1046 will be used by the state until 2026.
Functions of an IID in California
IIDs are personal breathalyzer devices. They measure your blood alcohol content (BAC) before allowing you to start your vehicle. IIDs also require you to perform random testing as you drive your vehicle. Often, these tests are required around every 45 minutes.
Any “failures” will be recorded by your IID. Your vehicle will not automatically stop if you fail a random test while driving, as this could endanger your safety and the safety of other drivers around you. However, multiple failures can lead to harsh criminal penalties in California. Additionally, your license could be suspended completely if you:
- Try to bypass or tamper with the IID
- Try to remove the IID
- Fail to service the IID as ordered by the court
- Fail at least three times to maintain or calibrate the IID
Costs Associated with IIDs in California
You cannot install an IID for free in the state of California. In general, you can expect to pay around $100 to have an IID installed in your vehicle. Note that this represents the cost of installation per IID. Charges may be higher if you have multiple vehicles.
Additionally, you have to pay regular fees while using an IID. These fees average out to around $2.50 a day. You may also be required to pay for the regular calibration and maintenance of your IID. Note that the state may cover a portion of these fees if you can demonstrate that you cannot afford to meet these costs.
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Review Your Options for IID Installation
Installing an IID can allow you to maintain your driving privileges after a DUI arrest. However, the costs for an IID can quickly grow out of hand. You may be able to avoid installing an IID if you reach out to a criminal defense lawyer in Los Angeles quickly after a DUI arrest.
A DUI lawyer can defend you from DUI charges. If your charges are dismissed, reduced, or successfully resolved in court you will not have to place an IID in your vehicle.
Speak to a Los Angeles DUI Lawyer About IIDs
Get help handling DUI charges in California by working with the Simmrin Law Group. While you have to install an IID after many DUI convictions, we can help you defend yourself in and out of court. Call us at (310) 896-2723 or fill out our online contact form to learn more about your legal options.
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