Texas DWI Laws Mandate Use of Interlock Ignition Device after DWI Charges

Device designed to prevent further drunk driving incidents

When a person is charged with a driving while intoxicated (DWI) offense, numerous changes may occur in their daily life. One of these changes can be an interlock ignition device (IID) mandated by the court to prevent further drunk driving incidents. As an experienced DWI and criminal defense lawyer, I provide assistance through my firm, Kevin L. Collins, P.C. to help my clients understand why they are assigned an IID and how it works. As a sole practitioner, I work closely with every client to ensure their comfort during a stressful and emotional time for them.

San Antonio courts mandate IIDs under several conditions

Several state laws in Texas describe the conditions under which an IID must be used:

• Texas courts may require the installation of an IID in cases of first-time DWI offenders.
• The courts are required to order the installation of an IID in cases of a second offense DWI or more for any combination of DWI, intoxication assault and intoxication manslaughter.
• An IID may be ordered by the courts or an offender’s probation officer as a condition of probation for alcohol-related offenses.

Offenders must obtain IIDs at their own expense from providers certified by the state of Texas. All costs associated with the IID, such as installation, monthly servicing and monitoring, calibration and repairs or removal, are paid by the offender. You can expect to pay between $50 to $200 for installation, as well as monthly rental fees. These costs quickly add up, particularly when already working with DWI lawyers.

After the IID is installed in your vehicle, you must blow into it and pass a breath test before your vehicle can start. You also have to perform random breath tests while driving, which prevents other individuals from blowing into the device for you. If the device registers a blood alcohol content of .05 percent or more, an alarm sounds, indicating that the incident has been recorded on the IID’s memory. If you attempt to tamper with or disengage the IID, it will also record those attempts, and you will face further penalties from the court.

Contact Kevin L. Collins, P.C. for assistance with IIDs

With legal representation, you may be able to avoid having an IID installed in your vehicle. Call Kevin L. Collins, P.C. at 210-598-8629 or contact me online to obtain my services and fight back against your DWI charges. As a former prosecutor, I understand how the opposition is thinking and the types of evidence they are likely to employ. Take advantage of my experience and skills and preserve your future.