If you have been convicted of driving under the influence in Oklahoma, you can face serious penalties. One of those is possibly being required to have an interlock ignition device in your vehicle when you have to drive. Since 2011, after the state passed the Erin Swezey Act, DUI laws have become even stricter. Interlock ignition devices are required for anyone determined to have a blood alcohol concentration of 0.15 or higher.
When an ignition interlock device is required
An ignition interlock device is also mandatory for any driver who had previously been convicted of DUI in Oklahoma. Additionally, if you refuse a breath test after being pulled over by a police officer, you will also be required to install the device in your vehicle. It’s important to understand how the ignition interlock device works and what to expect.
Ignition interlock devices are basically Breathalyzers for your vehicle. In other words, when you get into your car to drive, you are required to blow into the device so that your BAC can be measured. If there’s no alcohol on your breath, you are free to drive where you need to, but if the device detects alcohol, it will lock you out and you won’t be able to start your vehicle.
Due to the sensitivity of these devices, it’s important to know that they can detect even the faintest bit of alcohol. As a result, you may want to wash your mouth out with water before using it. You should also avoid using cough medicine, energy drinks or mouthwash while you have the ignition interlock device in your car.
By law, you’re required to bring your car in for maintenance when you have an ignition interlock device installed. A technician will upload the records from your usage of the device to the Oklahoma Department of Public Safety.
Seeking legal assistance
If you are facing DUI charges, you should immediately contact an experienced attorney for assistance. Your attorney will help protect your rights and seek build the best possible defense strategy to combat the allegations.