New California Ignition Interlock Law In Effect for Some DUI Offenders

July 1, 2009 - PRLog -- July 1 will bring what many consider to be great changes to California drunk driving laws.   As of this date, the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) will be authorized to require any driver convicted of driving with a suspended license due to a prior alcohol-related suspension to install an ignition interlock device in any vehicle owned or operated by the offender for one to three years.

This law has far-reaching effects, according to some experts.  They estimate that the number of drivers who will be affected by this law may reach 20,000 per year.  As a result of this law, each of these drivers must to install a device that detects alcohol on the breath.  If alcohol is detected, the vehicle simply won’t start.

Smart Start of California, the nation’s leading ignition interlock device company, feels that this measure takes a much-needed step toward safer roads.  

“This law will really do a lot to help the people of California in so many ways,” says Smart Start of California General Manager, Marc Bergman. “Our device is technologically advanced and will help improve safety on the roads.”

The ignition interlock device manufactured by Smart Start boasts “fuel cell technology,” which prevents false positives.  When the device detects alcohol the vehicle will not start –other foods or drinks detected on the breath will not prevent the car from starting.  In addition, the device requires “rolling retests,” which mandate that the driver continues to blow into the device at random intervals of 10-15 minutes.  If, at any time, alcohol is detected on the driver’s breath, the device will report this information.  Once the car is turned off, it won’t start again until another, alcohol-free test, is submitted.  

“Our device is accurate and difficult to circumvent, which ensures safer driving; and it’s convenient and inexpensive for the user,” says Bergman.  “This promotes compliance with court orders, and increased efficacy.”

To be sure, Smart Start has advanced reporting methods that let the judge, DMV hearing officer or probation officer know exactly how and when the device is used.  A full report, indicating the time, date and result of each test is emailed monthly to the person to which the driver needs to report.

“Ignition interlock devices are a win-win-win for the parties involved.  Offenders are happy to be driving, judges and DMV personnel feel secure ordering devices that are closely monitored and will prevent drinking and driving and the public at large benefits from the additional safety precautions taken by these drivers,” says Bergman.  “There really is no down side.”

Smart Start of California has more than 60 convenient locations throughout the state.  For more information, or to have an ignition interlock device installed, please contact Marc Bergman at 818-497-0231 or Marc@SmartStartofCalifornia.com.