As you may likely already know, the state of Tennessee has strict laws regarding drunk driving. One of the consequences of a DUI conviction is the required installation of an ignition interlock device, or IID. This is a handheld breathalyzer-type of device installed in a vehicle that prevents it from starting if the driver has been drinking alcohol.

Even first-time offenders are required to use an IID, per state law. A variety of manufacturers provide these devices to the state, and you must handle the costs yourself. All IIDs work basically the same. We’ll provide a quick overview, and then let you know what to do if yours breaks or becomes damaged in a car accident or other type of incident.

What is an ignition interlock device? How does it work?

An ignition interlock device blocks a driver from starting their vehicle if it detects any alcohol in their system. These devices are typically small, made up of a handheld unit about the size of a TV remote, a mouthpiece to breathe into, a relay cord, and a camera. Per Intoxalock, a company that services the Knoxville area, most IIDs work using one of the following methods, some of which are simple and some of which are more difficult:

• Blow/inhale/blow. Intoxalock claims this is the most accurate way to get a reading, and requires the user to blow into the mouthpiece for a few seconds, inhale, and blow back again, all without removing their mouth.
• One straight blow. This method requires one strong, forceful breath into the device.
• Blow and hum. With this method, users must blow and hum into the mouthpiece simultaneously, which can be difficult for some.

Per the company, “While a failed sample means you won’t be able to start the device, you can be assured the device will NOT be able to turn off your car once it is running. Once your vehicle has been started, no ignition interlock device is able to turn it off.”

However, if your BAC is above the limit when you must retest, the IID will signal you to pull over and stop your vehicle. If you don’t, depending on the device, it will honk your vehicle’s horn or flash its lights until you do. Like we just stated, it won’t simply cut the engine or anything like that, but you MUST pull over and you won’t be able to restart it once you do.

What if something happens to my IID?

There may be the rare occasion where something happens to your ignition interlock device. You might be involved in a car accident, or your vehicle is stolen, or your IID is damaged in a disaster like a hurricane. In cases like these, you’re typically responsible for the cost of replacing it. Many companies offer a device protection plan, sort of like insurance, so you don’t have to pay out of pocket if things like this happen.

IMPORTANT NOTE: IID manufacturers will not cover the cost of a replacement if they determine you or someone else attempted to tamper with or bypass the device.

Further, as Intoxalock reports, “Thieves who steal an ignition interlock device are in for some bad news — the devices aren’t worth anything to them because devices must be issued by the company, and installed and regulated by an ignition interlock provider.”

Chances are, anyway, that with a damaged or stolen IID, your vehicle won’t start. However, this is not an invitation or permission to drive a vehicle without one.

Report your stolen or damaged IID immediately

If your IID is stolen, call the police to file a report and then immediately get in touch with state Driver Services to ensure you don’t violate the terms of your DUI probation. If your IID is damaged or if you’re having issues with your device here in Tennessee, you can contact the manufacturer at the following numbers.

• Alcohol Detection Systems: 866-479-1292
• LifeSafer: 800-634-3077
• Draeger, Inc.: 800-332-6858
• Smart Start: 800-831-3299
• Intoxalock: 844-328-7443
• Simple Interlock: 866-698-7113

Don’t drive without your ignition interlock device. If you have questions, contact your Knoxville DUI defense attorney first. Being pulled over for driving without an IID after being court-ordered to use one can result in a violation of probation of charge, which can include jail time both for breaking the original court order and for the original DUI conviction.

Can I pause the IID program if my car was wrecked?

You may be allowed to “toll” or pause your IID requirement if your vehicle was involved in a crash or is inoperable due to no fault of your own. You must make this request through the IID manufacturer, providing supporting documents, like an accident report or a statement from your insurance company.

Per the state:

Tolls are granted in 30-day increments not to exceed 90 days. Extensions must be requested before the current toll period has expired. Requests for extension and proof of the need for an extension should be submitted directly to the Ignition Interlock Program via email to toll.interlock@tn.gov. The Ignition Interlock Program will notify you and your interlock manufacturer in writing or by electronic transmission if any additional toll period has been granted or denied. Persons who have been denied a toll may request a review within 10 days of denial.

It’s always a smart idea to also check with your attorney to ensure you’ve done everything right so you can get back on the road feeling confident and, above all, legal.

To find out more about the ignition interlock device program, talk to the Knoxville DUI defense lawyers at Banks & Jones today. We can answer all of your questions and put your mind at ease about what to do if your IID becomes damaged or stolen. Our job is to defend your rights, and we want to help. To schedule a consultation with a member of our team, call our offices or fill out our contact form today.