Your Ignition Interlock Device Keeps You Driving in Maryland

We’ve all heard the adage that driving is a privilege, not a right, which is why after certain traffic-related violations, licenses get suspended or revoked. Of course, we also know that one of the big violations that will take away our ability to legally drive is driving under the influence of alcohol. Nobody ever intends to drink and drive, but mistakes do happen and if you’ve been charged with a DUI in Maryland, a very important step could ensure you are still able to drive, even if you are convicted of the charge: installing an ignition interlock device.

Before you even get into court, Maryland will suspend your license if you refuse the breath test or if your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is at or above .08 percent. You will be given a temporary license, however, which means you can still prepare yourself for court and your administrative hearing. During the time you are driving on that temporary license, you can (and should) have an ignition interlock device installed, even if you don’t have a court order to do so. That way, you will probably be able to skip the administrative hearing with MVA and keep driving your own vehicle, as long as the ignition interlock is installed and you remain sober when driving.

An ignition interlock device isn’t the end of the world, and in states like Maryland, it can be the best way to make sure you keep your job and are able to fulfill your family obligations after a DUI. Plus, when you install the device prior to a court or MVA hearing, you show that you seriously regret your mistake and are doing your part to make sure you won’t ever be driving under the influence again.  Mistakes happen, and when you take positive steps to fix them, you end up finding it’s a lot easier to move on and into a better, brighter way of living.