Every year, the average cost associated with alcohol … related car crashes is over $59 billion. That’s an astronomical amount of money, and it doesn’t even touch the physical and emotional pain that come with alcohol … induced car crashes. Furthermore, many people suffer the costs and stigma associated with drunk driving arrests even when their blood alcohol level is below .08 … in some states, you can be arrested and convicted of a DUI with a blood alcohol level far below that number. An ignition interlock device can prevent these incidents, but many are unaware of their availability and advantages … or even what they are!
What Is An Ignition Interlock Device?
The term “ignition interlock device” overall refers to what many would think of as a car breathalyzer. They prevent a car from moving forward once the driver is above a certain, pre … set limit … usually around .02. This is extremely effective, as it enables the driver to not only be safe, but know exactly what their blood alcohol level is so that they can know whether or not it would be safe for them to have another drink.
How Much Does A Car Breathalyzer Cost?
Car breathalyzer prices can range, but the price is definitely worth it. Each day, 28 Americans die due to drunk driving accidents. Ignition interlocks can reduce repeat offenses by 39%, compared to individuals who’ve never had the interlock installed. You have to consider not only the physical safety the ignition interlock device provides, but the actual money it saves in everything from legal fees to, in the case of less serious crashes, car repairs. An ignition interlock doesn’t have to advertise to everyone driving with you that you’ve had a DUI or a similar problem; a discreet breathalyze can be installed, allowing you to be safe without suffering from the stigma of a drunk driving offense.
Can People Trick The Ignition Interlock Device?
You may think that people could trick an ignition interlock by beginning their drive sober and drinking while driving. This is not the case, and is virtually impossible with most devices. Most interlock devices ask for a rolling retest 5 to 10 minutes after the car starts, and will continue to request that test throughout the drive. This ensures that if the driver drinks throughout the drive, their car will stop once they reach the pre … set limit.
Though an ignition interlock device is a valuable way for people with past DUI offenses to avoid repeating their mistakes, there’s more at stake here. What these devices really do is prevent potentially catastrophic events, and in that sense even save lives. People are less likely to drink and drive in the first place with these devices installed … and if they do, they will be stopped before anyone gets hurt.
