North Carolina considers ignition interlock devices for DUI offenders

North Carolina is one seven states considering laws that would require first time DUI offenders have ignition interlock devices installed in their vehicles.

The primary issue is whether the state reserves the devices for multiple offenders, those who have been charged in the past 10 years, and hard-core DUI offenders, people who have blood alcohol content of .15 or more, or mandate that the devices be installed for first time DUI recipients.

The ignition interlock devices are breathalyzers that can detect alcohol on a person’s breath and prevent vehicle from starting if a person has been drinking. They are costly to have installed and require periodic re-calibration.

For first time offenders, a North Carolina drunk driving lawyer can have the resulting fines and penalties reduced, but the interlock device would tack on additional fees. It would cost the state close $432 million to supervise the offenders.

Proponents to the new law to add the interlock device, like MADD, say that they would prevent recidivism rates. But opponents say that the devices would only be required for six months and recidivism rates would increase after that time period.

Courts take DUIs seriously and whether a person is a first-time or repeat offender, they will need the representation of a North Carolina drunk driving lawyer.  A person who hires a North Carolina drunk driving lawyer may see that their initial charges are reduced and the penalties minimized.