Colorado Cracks Down on DUIs by Requiring Ignition Interlock

Ignition Interlock is an incredible invention that can be installed on a driver’s car to prevent them from driving under the influence of alcohol. The driver is required to provide a breath sample before the car engine will start. They also may be periodically required to breathe into the device while driving. If the person’s breath indicates that he or she has alcohol on the driver’s breath, the car will not start and the person will not be able to drive while under the influence.

Since the interlock system has been put in place, Colorado has seen a decline in repeat DUI offenders. However, the ignition interlock is only effective when it is installed in the car. Studies have shown that once it is removed from the car, drivers show a likelihood of reoffending.

Colorado requires ignition interlock in drunk drivers’ cars beginning with the first offense. How long the device is on a person’s car depends on the number of DUI or related offenses the driver has, as well as the blood alcohol level at the time of each arrest. After a driver’s initial arrest and allocated jail time, drivers may reapply for a provisional license, which is a restricted license stating that the driver’s vehicle must have the interlock system.

The ignition interlock device can also be rather costly for the individual convicted of DUI. The costs of installing and monitoring the device can run hundreds of dollars, which must be paid by the person convicted. It can also make things difficult if the car is a shared vehicle, which means that anyone using it must use the device before driving.

Colorado has some of the toughest DUI laws in the country. Not only can they arrest for DUI, but officers can also arrest for DWAI, Driving While Ability Impaired, which carries a lower blood alcohol level than the DUI. Both offenses are taken with the utmost severity and your license will be marked for life.