Most states have regulations that require or give a judge the option of ordering the installation of an ignition interlock switch after drunk driving convictions. Colorado’s mandatory ignition interlock device is a cellphone-sized mechanism installed in a car that measures the blood alcohol content (BAC) of the driver. By breathing into the device, the driver must register a BAC below a certain limit for the vehicle to start. Additionally, the driver must breathe into the machine periodically while driving. The ignition interlock device uses fuel-cell sensor technology to identify the presence of alcohol. The devices keep track of BAC test results, engine stops and starts, and any time the device is manipulated. 

In Colorado, an ignition interlock device is mandatory for all DUI offenders. Any person who refuses to take a sobriety test, even if it’s their first offense, is required to use an ignition interlock for two years. Any driver convicted of DUI with a BAC of 0.15% or more, even on the first offense, will be required to have an ignition interlock device placed on their vehicle for two years. Any driver with a Colorado DUI who has served one month of their license revocation, may be eligible to have their driving privileges reinstated with an eight month ignition interlock requirement.

Ignition Interlock Device Prices

The overall cost of installation, calibration and scheduled maintenance is the responsibility of the offender. An ignition interlock device will cost a few hundred dollars to be installed and about $75 per month to rent. Some states have programs that will subsidize the monthly cost if the offender can prove that they cannot afford the monthly charges. But the primary goal for every state is that their ignition interlock program is self-sustaining since the DUI offender is required to pay the fees.

Potential Problems with Ignition Interlock Devices

Utilizing ignition interlock switches should reduce the occurrence of drunk driving. Additionally, using the devices can aid those with drunk driving convictions in demonstrating to the court that they have refrained from excessive drinking. There are, however, potential problems with the use of the devices including:

• Shared vehicles- If the offender shares a car with a spouse or another person, that driver will need to use the device as well.
• Malfunctions- Due to the device’s use of intricate fuel technology, the possibility of malfunctions resulting in incorrect readings is possible.
• False positives- If a driver has recently used mouthwash or eaten certain foods containing sugar and yeast that produce low levels of sugar, the sensitive devices may indicate a false positive.

Contact a Boulder DUI Defense Attorney

When you are arrested and charged with DUI in Boulder, your future depends largely on your legal counsel. It is important to choose a Boulder DUI defense lawyer with the experience needed to successfully defend you after a DUI arrest. Contact the Boulder criminal defense lawyers at Steven Louth Law Offices today for a free consultation and review of your case. Contact us at (303) 422-2297 to start building a solid defense against these serious criminal charges.