Ignition Interlock

In New York, over the last 20 years there have been many changes in the law with regard to the penalties and suspensions associated with DWI charges and convictions. The law now requires that anyone convicted of driving while intoxicated in New York install and maintain an ignition interlock device in any vehicle own or operated by that defendant. The ignition interlock device is connected to the vehicles ignition system. The motorist is required to blow into the device to determine his or hers blood alcohol content. The ignition interlock device will not permit the vehicle to start unless the breath sample is deemed acceptable. The law requires that the ignition interlock device be installed and maintained for at least 6 months however it is not uncommon for the court to require that the interlock device remain installed for a greater period of time.  

Those who have been ordered to install an ignition interlock device, and are subsequently caught driving a vehicle without an ignition interlock device during the required period will be subject a new criminal charges with penalties that may include jail. Likewise those who come up positive for alcohol after blowing into the ignition interlock device may subject themselves to additional charges including violating probation.

For a free consultation with a Suffolk County DWI Attorney