Driving while intoxicated (DWI) is a serious traffic offense in New Jersey that can have far-reaching consequences, including harsh fines, participating in alcohol education courses, driver’s license suspension, jail time, and the installation of an ignition interlock device (IID). If you are facing criminal charges for DWI, you may be wondering whether an IID is required on all DWI convictions. Please continue reading to learn when IIDs are mandatory and how a seasoned Middlesex County, New Jersey, DWI Lawyer can help develop a robust defense strategy to protect your driving privileges.
What is an Ignition Interlock Device?
An ignition interlock device (IID) is a small device mounted on a vehicle connected to the car’s ignition system. It is designed to prevent the vehicle from starting if alcohol is detected on the driver’s breath. Before starting the engine, the driver must blow into the mouthpiece to provide a breath sample. If alcohol is detected, the engine will not start. The engine will only start when the IID receives a clean BAC reading. While driving, the IID will ask for random readings to ensure the driver is not impaired.
It’s important to understand that every motor vehicle owned, operated, or leased must have an IID device installed until the court-ordered license suspension period expires. The IID must be maintained and remain functional throughout the license suspension period, which is six months to a year for a first DWI offense.
How Long Does it Have to Be Installed in NJ?
Whether it’s your first or a subsequent DWI offense, you must have an IID installed in your vehicle. New Jersey law also requires those convicted of refusing to submit to a chemical test to have the device installed in their car. The time frame in which an offender must have an IID on their vehicle depends on their blood alcohol concentration (BAC). For first offenses, those with a BAC of 0.08% and less than 0.10% will likely be required to install the device for three months. In addition, their driver’s license will be suspended until they have installed one. The duration is gen rally between seven to twelve months for BACs above 0.10% and less than 0.15%. Furthermore, those with a BAC at or above 0.15% will be subject to installing an IID for nine to fifteen months upon license reinstatement.
If this is your second, third, or subsequent DWI offense, you are looking at IID usage for two to four years following a maximum two-year driver’s license suspension. Failure to install an IID wwhenordered by a judge can result in additional penalties, including revoking a year of your driving privileges.
At the Law offices of Aditya Surti, LLC, we are prepared to help shield you from your charges and protect you from an uncertain future. If you have been charged with DUI, please don’t hesitate to contact our dedicated legal team today to discuss how we can assist you in safeguarding your rights and driving privileges.
