As you may know, a DWI conviction can drastically impact a person’s life in a variety of ways. Most people will face various penalties, including fines, jail time, and the mandatory installation and use of the ignition interlock device in their vehicle. Please continue reading and reach out to our experienced Camden County DUI attorney to learn more about the ignition interlock device and whether you will have to use it after a DWI conviction. Here are some of the questions you may have:
What does the ignition interlock device do?
The legal limit for blood alcohol concentration is .08%. This means if you are found guilty of having a BAC of .08% or higher while operating a motor vehicle, you will receive a DWI. Many people who receive DWIs are required to install and use the ignition interlock device in their vehicles. Once the ignition interlock device is installed, you will be required to blow a BAC of lower than .05% before starting your motor vehicle. If you fail, your vehicle will not start. From here, the device will prompt you to provide breath samples at random throughout the duration of your trip to ensure that you are still not under the influence of alcohol.
Will I have to use the ignition interlock device if I get a DWI?
Anyone who is convicted of a first-offense DWI in New Jersey will be required to use the ignition interlock device for a period of time, though the length of time you will have to use the device will depend on your blood alcohol content at the time of your arrest.
For example, if you were arrested with a BAC of .08%, you will most likely have to install and use the ignition interlock device in your vehicle for three months. If you receive a DWI with a BAC between .10% and .14%, you will have to use the ignition interlock device in your vehicle for at least seven months. If you were arrested with a BAC higher than .15% or you refused to submit to chemical testing, you will have to use the ignition interlock device for anywhere between nine and 15 months.
You should also understand that if this is your second or subsequent DWI, you may be required to install and use the device both during your license suspension and for up to four years after your license is reinstated. If you have any further questions or you’ve received a DWI and are looking to fight these potential penalties, speak with our Camden County criminal defense attorney as soon as you can.
Contact our experienced New Jersey firm
Thomas DeMarco & Associates, LLC is an experienced Camden County criminal defense law firm located in Mt. Ephraim, New Jersey. We understand how potentially damaging a criminal can be, which is why we pride ourselves on our willingness to fight for our client’s rights. Our firm handles all criminal matters and is ready to provide you with our knowledgeable legal counsel. Do not hesitate to contact our firm to discuss your legal situation.
