Michigan Ignition Interlock Device

Driving under the influence (DUI) is considered a serious offense in Michigan, and the penalties reflect that. If convicted of drunk driving, you may be sentenced to jail time, fines, community service, and a lengthy driver’s license suspension. You may also be ordered to have a Michigan ignition interlock device installed in your vehicles as part of your probation or to have your license reinstated.

An ignition interlock device is similar to a breathalyzer machine. The small device, which is typically mounted to your vehicle’s dashboard, measures your blood alcohol content (BAC) before the ignition will start. If your BAC is over the preset limit, you will be unable to start your vehicle.

These devices are designed to detect tampering. In order to determine if you, and not an air machine, are taking the test, you may be required to hum into the machine. If you physically tamper with the interlock ignition device, an alarm may go off and it will be noted in the machine’s computer.

Some machines may require you to take a rolling retest. This test takes place while you are driving, and is used to verify that you did not have a friend take the initial test, or begin drinking after starting the vehicle. If you fail the rolling retest, the lights will begin flashing and the horn will honk until you pull over and turn your ignition off.

The ignition interlock device records every breath test you take. You must periodically take the device in for maintenance, at which time the information from the ignition interlock device is downloaded. If you attempted to start your vehicle with a BAC over the preset limit, or tampered with the device, the court or your probation officer may be notified.

You are responsible for any expenses associated with the ignition interlock device. In most cases, the installation will set you back $100-$200, and the monthly rental fee may cost between $70 and $100.

If you would like to learn more about the Michigan interlock device and other penalties associated with a drunk-driving conviction, fill out our online contact form today.An attorney from The Barone DUI Defense Firm will contact you shortly and provide you with a DUI case evaluation as well as a copy of The Michigan DUI Book (A Citizen’s Handbook on Fighting a Michigan DUI Case).