Ignition Interlock Devices & DUI in Santa Monica

Santa Monica DUI Lawyer

Particularly in accordance with California’s new DUI laws, drivers in Santa Monica convicted of driving under the influence are likely to face the mandatory installation of an ignition interlock device in their vehicles. The best way to challenge your DUI charges and work to avoid having to install this apparatus in your car is to involve an aggressive attorney who will fight to protect your legal rights. You have the option to contest criminal charges and license suspension in conjunction with your charges; a competent lawyer will understand how to approach your defense to offer you the best opportunity at a positive result.

At the Law Offices of Loren M. Merlin, we represent drivers throughout Santa Monica and the surrounding areas in the face of all types of DUI charges: first DUI offenses, second DUI offenses, felony DUI, DUI of drugs, under 21 DUI, DUI accidents and more. We are here to help when you need it most.

About Ignition Interlock Devices (IIDs)

An ignition interlock device is a piece of equipment installed in a motor vehicle that affects the starting mechanism. It includes an apparatus slightly larger than a cell phone that acts as a breath test device that the driver must blow into and provide a clean breath sample in order for the device to allow the motor vehicle to start. It may be preset to .02% or a different blood alcohol concentration, meaning the driver must blow a sample that has a result of less than .02% to start the vehicle. In addition to requiring a sample upon starting the vehicle, the ignition interlock device will require additional samples at random points while the vehicle is in use. If the driver fails to provide a sample or provides a sample with a blood alcohol concentration above the allowed level, the ignition interlock device will note the violation and will call attention to this fact by turning on the car alarm, flashing the lights or making another indication until the vehicle is stopped or a proper breath sample is administered.

If you have questions about ignition interlock devices and how these may affect you, contact a Santa Monica DUI Attorney today.