IF I’M ARRESTED FOR DUI IN MARYLAND, WILL I HAVE TO USE AN IGNITION INTERLOCK DEVICE?
Maryland has one of the most aggressive ignition interlock
programs in the nation. The program began in 1989, and is fully
automated and monitored by the Maryland Department of
Transportation's Motor Vehicle Administration. Maryland has the
sixth-largest number of ignition interlock systems installed, a
staggering statistic given
that Maryland ranks 19th in population.
Driving while impaired (DWI) while transporting a minor
younger than age 16
Driving while intoxicated with an initial breathalyzer test
refusal
Homicide or life-threatening injury by motor vehicle while
DUI or DWI
In addition to first-time convictions, interlock devices may be
ordered for subsequent convictions. For instance, upon the
suspension or revocation of your driver's license, you may
elect to participate in the Ignition Interlock System Program.
Duration of enrollment depends upon circumstances, but state
law states that
you will enroll in the Ignition Interlock Program for:
180 days if you submitted to a test indicating an alcohol
concentration of at least 0.08 percent but less than 0.15
percent
One year if you submitted to a test indicating an alcohol
concentration of 0.15 percent or more
One year if you refused to submit to the test
Maryland district courts, administrative law judges, or the
Motor Vehicle Administration also may refer drivers to the
program. A Maryland district court, the Office of
Administrative Hearings, or the state Medical Advisory Board
usually determines whether a driver is eligible for or must
participate in the program and for how long.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT IGNITION INTERLOCK
DEVICES
When faced with
drunken driving charges, whether driving under the
influence of driving while intoxicated, defendants may face the
possibility of mandatory use of an ignition
interlock system. For most people, this is new territory,
and they have no idea what an ignition interlock system
entails. What is an ignition interlock system?
An ignition interlock system is essentially a breathalyzer
connected to the ignition system of your car.
It is designed to keep anyone under the influence of
alcohol from driving the vehicle.
The driver must provide a breath sample by blowing into the
interlock device before starting the vehicle.
If the breath sample submitted is below a pre-set state
limit, the driver can start the vehicle. If the breath alcohol
concentration is above the pre-set limit, the vehicle will not
start.
The system does not affect the operation of the vehicle except
to prevent its operation if the driver fails a breath test.
When removed, the vehicle is returned to its original
condition.
Interlock ignition system costs vary, but are roughly $70 to
$150 to install and $60 to $90 per month for monitoring and
calibration.
IF YOU WERE ARRESTED FOR DUI IN MARYLAND, CONTACT THE
CRIMINAL DEFENSE LAWYERS OF ALPERT SCHREYER
If you were arrested for DUI or DWI in
Maryland and may be required to use an ignition interlock
device, consult a criminal defense attorney to determine what
your rights are under the particular circumstances of your
arrest.