Connecticut the 15th State to Require Use of Ignition Interlock Devices for DUI Offenders | Shapiro, Washburn & Sharp

Connecticut (CT) has become one of 15 states to mandate ignition interlock devices for drivers who have been convicted of drunk driving, or driving with a blood-alcohol content above .08. The devices are mandatory for even first-time offenders in the Nutmeg State.

Virginia (VA) is one of 24 states that require the device for repeat offenders or for those caught with an alcohol level of .15 or more.

Ignition interlock devices are about the size of a cell phone, and they are wired into the ignition system of a vehicle. A driver must blow into them, and if their alcohol level is above a certain level, the car will not start. In order to make sure it is the driver blowing into the device, many devices now include cameras.

MADD believes that the devices reduce rearrest rates by 67 percent.

We hope additional technology will help reduce drunk driving, a very serious problem on our roads. As a Virginia personal injury lawyer, I am grateful states are taking this issue seriously and using new tools at their disposal to make our communities and roads safer.

AC