A new state law that is in the works, if approved, could require first-time California DUI offenders to install an ignition interlock breath testing device (IID) into their vehicle’s ignition. According to this news report, the bill’s author, Mike Feur, a state senator from Los Angeles, claims that it will deter the 45,000 repeat drunk drivers who are arrested each year across California.
If this proposed bill becomes law, first-time drunk driving law offenders in four counties would be required to install the devices. IID’s are basically about the size of a cell phone and wired to the vehicle’s ignition. The driver would not be able to start the vehicle until his or her blood alcohol level is below the legal limit. In California, as in almost all other states, it is illegal to operate a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol level (BAC) of 0.08 percent or higher.
This proposed law is flawed and unfair because it treats first-time CA DUI offenders the same as repeat offenders. It would be required to be on the vehicle for six months. And there are questions about how effective these devices are. For example, a determined person can get someone else to blow into the device to help start the vehicle. Sometimes, false positives caused, for example, the use of mouthwashes can cause cars to stall or shut off while on the road.
These stricter laws are yet another reason why you should contact the experienced and skilled Southern California drunk driving defense attorneys at Sitkoff & Hanrahan as soon as you know you are facing DUI charges. Our knowledgeable attorneys will take aggressive action to make sure that your charges are dismissed or reduced and your fines are diminished or eliminated as well. Please call us today to schedule your free consultation.