How does an IIH Prevent Recidivism?

Legislation in all 50 states in the U.S. shows that ignition interlock devices are a tremendous deterrent to the problem of repeat DUI/DWI offenses. Ignition interlocks have come a long way over the years, and are rapidly becoming one of the strongest ways to prevent a convicted drunk driver from repeating his or her mistake and putting the lives of innocent people in danger. A person who has been caught driving while under the influence of alcohol is estimated to have driven in that state of intoxication around 80 times prior to the arrest. Ignition interlock devices take the choice to drive drunk out of the hands of people who cannot be trusted to make the right choice, and even act as a deterrent for those who may consider having “just a few drinks” before heading home.

Recidivism is the repetition of a criminal offense. While it is not uncommon for a criminal to continue his or her behaviors even after being caught in the act of a crime,  there is a more destructive element to recidivism when it comes to DUI/DWI convictions. Ignition interlock devices are often part of a DUI/DWI sentence in order to keep a repeat offender from continuing the dangerous behavior of driving while intoxicated or while under the influence of alcohol. By breathing into the device, the level of alcohol in the person’s blood stream is measured and if alcohol is detected at or above the pre-set level, the car will not start. An IID will also require a “rolling re-test” while a car is in motion, making sure that the person who is driving has not tried to circumvent the test by having a passenger blow into the device. IIDs now can also come with a video camera that will take a photo of the person testing, ensuring that an offender is truly following the terms of his or her DUI/DWI conviction sentence.

Since these devices will disable a vehicle from operating and continue to provide proof that the person driving is sober, the ability and chance to drive drunk is virtually eliminated. With an IID, recidivism is nearly impossible, giving people the peace of mind that they are safe from drunk drivers, while still allowing a convicted offender the ability to continue to work or fulfill family obligations. As more states implement stricter ignition interlock policies for drunk drivers, the chances of injury or death due to drunk drivers diminish significantly.