Ignition Interlock Devices In Texas DWI Cases

There are a variety of consequences for a DWI charge in Texas. One common result is the installation of an ignition interlock device on your vehicle. These devices pose a serious inconvenience to anyone, but especially those who may rely on their vehicle for their job or other important transportation. It is a particularly harsh consequence of a DWI, but the right attorney can help prevent it.

What Is An Ignition Interlock Device?

An ignition interlock device is a small, handheld breathalyzer device that is installed on the ignition of a vehicle. It is designed to prevent the vehicle from starting if the user has been drinking alcohol.

Unlike with a DWI stop, most devices will prevent the car from starting if there is any trace of alcohol in the breath sample, rather than only being within the legal limit of .08. If the user blows a failed sample, the car will not start for a certain amount of time, and the lock-out period can get longer with each failed test.

When Can An Ignition Interlock Device Be Used As A Punishment For A DWI Arrest?

Ignition interlock devices are a particularly harsh punishment for a DWI, and as such, they are not always used as a consequence for a DWI charge or arrest. Typically, ignition interlock installation is mandatory after a second DWI conviction within a period of five years.

In most cases, the subject is also required to pay any fees related to installing the device, themselves. That can include the cost of the device itself, installation fees and any fees required to monitor or calibrate the device.

Is There A Way To Get An Ignition Interlock Device Removed Or Defend Against The Suggested Consequence?

In most cases, the ignition interlock device is only installed while the driver is using a restricted license. If your official license is reinstated, your ignition interlock device can be removed.

In other cases, you may need a court order to remove the ignition interlock. In these situations, you may need to prove that you can responsibly operate a vehicle and will no longer pose a risk to driving while intoxicated.

It is also possible to defend against having an ignition interlock device installed at all. But if this is your goal, or if you face either of the cases above, it’s crucial to have an experienced attorney on your side who can advocate for you and create a compelling argument against installing the device.

Need Dedicated Legal Assistance? We Are Here For You.

A criminal defense attorney from Ramos & Del Cueto, can help. Our team of DWI attorneys has nearly 100 years of combined experience in these cases. They’ve seen it all, and they’ve spent those decades in practice figuring out how to best represent people facing DWI charges. They know how to create a solid case on your behalf, even when the question of installing an interlock device is involved.

Contact one of our attorneys by using our online contact form, or give us a call at 210-761-6004 to get more information from us. Set up a consultation, and we can get started helping you with your case.