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What is an ignition interlock device?

Girl holding keysDrinking & Driving Lawyer in Ohio

The ignition interlock device is a device that is installed in the car that you’ll need to blow into in order to be able to start your vehicle. It is a penalty for being arrested and charged with a DUI. It is typically set to zero or another minimal number.

You don’t just blow on the ignition interlock device before you drive either. You also are required to do what they call rolling restarts. If you’re driving along and you get a beep, then you need to pull over within a reasonable amount of time and start it again.

This could happen in 5-minute increments, and then you may not get one for 30. It is sporadic.

The device is mounted in the car, and you aren’t exactly able to use it inconspicuously. It’s mounted under the dashboard and you have to pull it out to actually blow on it.

Does the state pay for my ignition interlock device?

No, if you are required to use an ignition interlock, you need to purchase it yourself. And these devices aren’t exactly cheap.

Not everyone who is charged with a DUI will necessarily need to purchase an ignition interlock device, but there are some cities and states that are trying to pass this law. Columbus is one of those cities.

Can other people drive my car if it has an interlock device on it?

Yes, they can. As a matter of fact, sometimes you’re in a family situation where there’s only one car. The car you drive may not even be in your name. In this case, the title owner will have to sign a paper at the DMV that they know the device is being put in their car.

However, if you have ignition interlock on your car, you are responsible for any failed test. You can’t say, “My wife was driving it,” or, “I loaned it to my buddy.” If there is a failure on the test it will come back to you.

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