How to use an ignition interlock device correctly

Among the many consequences that often come with a conviction for driving while impaired, losing your driving privileges may be the most inconvenient. After all, you must drive to work, home, the grocery store and other places that provide essential services.

It may be possible to restore your driving privileges early by installing an ignition interlock device on every vehicle you drive. These devices prevent you from starting your vehicle if you have alcohol in your system. Here are some tips for using an ignition interlock device correctly.

Provide alcohol-free breath samples

A second or subsequent DWI conviction is likely to have harsher consequences than your initial one. Therefore, before breathing into the testing device, you must be sure you have a blood alcohol concentration of 0.00%. If you have had anything to drink, it is better to find an alternative way to reach your destination.

Take your car to a provider for calibration

Like many other machines, ignition interlock devices require regular calibration to function properly. Therefore, you must periodically take your vehicle to an approved provider for calibration. While you should receive instructions on calibration intervals during device installation, your court order may also impose additional maintenance requirements.

Be careful with distracted driving

Distracted driving is potentially dangerous. While you probably have little risk when you start your vehicle, providing breath samples when the vehicle is in motion may divert your attention from the driving task.

Ultimately, staying safe behind the wheel is in large part up to you. If you cannot safely provide a rolling breath sample, you may need to pull over before breathing into your ignition interlock device.