Commonly known penalties for a DWI conviction are license suspension, fines, and incarceration. But many people do not know that they also may be ordered to install an ignition interlock device in their vehicle. Continue reading to learn the purpose of this device and how an experienced McAllen, Texas DWI lawyer at the Law Office of Angel Davila can help you understand what this means for your day-to-day life.
What is the purpose of an ignition interlock device?
Essentially, the purpose of an ignition interlock device is to prevent you from getting behind the wheel if you are intoxicated. That is, with this device in your vehicle, you will be required to provide breath samples to ensure that your blood alcohol content (BAC) level is below a specific limit. Such breath samples are required before you start your vehicle and at random points during your drive.
What if I blow a BAC above Texas’ legal limit with an ignition interlock device?
Texas’ BAC legal limit is 0.08%. However, this limit is much more restrictive with an ignition interlock device in your vehicle. If the device detects a BAC level of 0.03% or higher, you will fail the breath test and your vehicle will not start.
Additionally, the device will randomly command you to provide breath samples during your drive. If you ignore this command, an alarm will sound off and signal you to pull over to provide a breath sample. And if you have your passenger provide a breath sample on your behalf, the camera will pick this up and your passenger may be facing some sort of penalty.
What are the chances that I will need to install an ignition interlock device in my vehicle?
Notably, Texas law mandates that an ignition interlock device be installed in your vehicle if you fall under the following categories:
- If you received a first-offense DWI with a BAC level of 0.15% or higher.
- If you received a first-offense DWI with being under the age of 21.
- If you received a second-offense DWI.
- If you received a third-offense DWI.
Having an ignition interlock device installed in your vehicle is not only humiliating, but it can be costly. That is, you will have to have this installed in your vehicle at your own expense, which can cost upwards of $100.
With all things considered, you must take your DWI conviction seriously. This is why you should not hesitate in retaining the services of a skilled Hidalgo County, Texas criminal defense lawyer. Rest assured, our team will tirelessly fight against the penalties placed against you.
Contact Our Hidalgo County, Texas Firm
For quality legal defense for criminal convictions, family law matters, and estate planning matters, contact the Law Office of Angel Davila today.
