As discussed in our earlier blogs, the new DWI law that went into effect July 1st has caused Minnesota drivers to face tougher DWI penalties, but it has also provided new options including an opportunity to immediately retrieve their license by utilizing a device that will prevent their vehicle from starting if their breath shows a certain blood alcohol level.
Repeat offenders or first-time DWI offenders with a BAC of .16 face longer periods of license revocation, but now have a chance to drive their vehicles sooner if they choose to install an ignition interlock device in their vehicles. Rather than facing long periods of revocation without the ability to drive even with a limited license or work permit, these individuals now have the option to pay for the installation of the device and also a monthly fee in order get their driving license back sooner.
After installing the interlock device, an individual ready to drive a vehicle must blow 1.5 liters of air into the handheld alcohol sensor usually placed in the dashboard. The device will not allow the vehicle start, if it detects a sufficient amount of alcohol. In addition to keeping the vehicle from starting, it will also conduct rolling or random tests after the vehicle has already started. This is apparrently designed to prevent a driver from allowing a sober person to blow into the device just to start the vehicle and to further prevent the driver from drinking while driving.
In summarry, the purpose of the interlock ignition device is to help monitor drinking and driving activities while promoting road safety that hopefully encourages changes in behavior. For those individuals charged with DWI that choose this option, it certainly will be an inconvenience, but not nearly as much as being without the ability to drive a motor vehicle on the roads of Minnesota for longer periods of time under the new laws.
Are you in need of a Minneapolis DUI lawyer? If so Douglas T. Kans is a highly regarded Minneapolis DWI attorney who will provide you with comprehensive legal services that you need to ensure the best possible resolution of your drunk driving case. You can contact Kans Law Firm at (952) 835-6314 for a free case review.
Tags: blood alcohol level, drunken driver, dwi penalties, license revocation, Minnesota DUI law, Minnesota Ignition Interlock
