In the state of New Jersey, a person who is convicted of a DWI can face very serious consequences as a result of their actions. This is because driving while intoxicated can put many lives in danger. Certain consequences can include fines, surcharges, mandatory attendance at alcohol education courses, and jail time. In addition to this, depending on the situation, the court may require the installation of an ignition interlock device. Continue reading below to learn more about this device and contact an experienced New Jersey criminal defense attorney for assistance with your case.
If a person is convicted of a DWI in New Jersey, the court may require an ignition interlock device to be installed in the driver’s vehicle. This is a device that connects to the steering column, requiring the individual to blow a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) less than 0.05% for the vehicle to start. The vehicle will not turn on if their BAC is above this limit. This is done to protect people on the road from drunk drivers by ensuring they cannot start their vehicle if they are too intoxicated to drive. In addition to this, it prevents other people from blowing into the device on behalf of the intoxicated person, as additional breaths must be given while the vehicle is in motion. If they are not provided, the vehicle will make a record of it, issue a warning, and set off an alarm until the vehicle is pulled over.
First time DWI offenders who have a BAC over .15% may be required to have an ignition interlock device installed in their vehicle. A driver may also be required to have it installed if they refuse to take a breathalyzer test issued by law enforcement after they are pulled over. This must be installed after their license is reinstated for a period of six months to one year. If their BAC is under 0.15%, it is up to the discretion of the court whether or not the device should be installed.
Those who receive a second DWI conviction may be required to have the device installed while their license is suspended in addition to a period of one to three years after it is reinstated. This is the same for those with a third DWI conviction or those who refuse to submit a breathalyzer test. If the driver does not have the device installed when they are ordered to, the judge can mandate an additional year of their license suspension.
Kevin T. Conway is an experienced Bergen County criminal attorney handling DUI, DWI, traffic violations, violent crimes, sex crimes, illegal gun possession, shoplifting, and juvenile crimes. Attorney Conway is also experienced in commercial law matters, zoning law, and estate planning. If you need an aggressive criminal lawyer, contact The Law Office of Kevin T. Conway for a free consultation.
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