In New York, if you operate a vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or greater, you will be charged with driving while under the influence (DUI). DUI is a serious offense that carries significant penalties. Depending on the circumstances of your conviction such as whether you have any previous convictions and your BAC level, the consequences will vary in severity. However, potential penalties may include fines, probation, license suspension, enrollment in the New York Impaired Driver Program (IDP), installation of an ignition interlock device (IID), and even jail time. If you are facing a DUI conviction, obtaining the right legal representation is imperative to prevent these harsh penalties. Keep reading to learn more about IIDs and how a skilled Rockland County DUI Attorney can help you today.
Are ignition interlock devices mandatory after a DUI conviction in New York?
An ignition interlock device (IID) is essentially a breathalyzer that is installed in your vehicle where you have to blow into a mouthpiece to measure the amount of alcohol in your breath. Your engine will not start if the IID measures any alcohol. The purpose of an IID is to prevent motorists from operating a vehicle while they are intoxicated. DUI convictions require you to temporarily install an IID in your vehicle until the period of your sentence is over. Furthermore, in New York, those convicted of alcohol-related offenses such as a DUI may be offered the opportunity to regain their driving privileges. When your license is suspended or revoked as a result of a DUI, you may be eligible for a hardship or conditional license. A hardship license allows you to operate a vehicle with restricted driving privileges. If you are granted a hardship license after a DUI, you will not be permitted to operate a vehicle until you have installed an IID. After a DUI conviction, it is mandatory to install an IID.
How much does it cost?
When charged with DUI, you are required to install an IID. When ordered to install an IID, you are responsible for paying for the installation process and any associated costs. Typically, the installation of an IID costs between $100-$200. Once it is installed, you will be responsible for paying a monthly maintenance fee. The monthly maintenance fee for an IID averages around $100 a month. Depending on how long you are required to operate a vehicle with an IID, this can wind up costing you a substantial amount of money. In addition to these associated fees, it often costs around $200 to have an IID removed from your vehicle. It is also important to note that you may be required to install an IID on more than one vehicle if you have multiple cars. Ultimately, an IID will cost you a significant amount of money.
In the unfortunate event that you or a loved one have been charged with DUI, please don’t hesitate to contact one of our seasoned attorneys. With years of experience, we are committed to defending our client’s rights and interests. Allow our firm to fight on your behalf today to prevent harsh penalties.
