An interlock device, also known as an IID, is a compact device that is installed in a vehicle to prevent the driver from operating a car if they have been drinking alcohol. This is a common requirement for individuals who have previously faced charges of driving under the influence (DUI). The purpose of an interlock device is to make sure that individuals, who have previously been charged with driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, are driving safely on the roadways and do not cause drunk driving accidents.
If you are facing a DUI charge and the court is requiring that you install an interlock device on your car, it may be beneficial to seek the help of an experienced attorney to advocate on your behalf. Interlock devices can be expensive and often come with additional fees.
If you require legal representation for your charges, contact Touma Law Group's DUI attorneys in Greenville today for a free consultation. Call us at (864) 618-2323 to get started.
Cost of an Ignition Interlock Device
If you have been required by the court to install an IID on your car, there are various ignition interlock costs that you may find yourself being forced to pay. Some of these costs include installation fees, monthly monitoring and calibration fees, and removal charges.
Installation Costs and Initial Fees
The cost of installing an ignition interlock device varies and depends on several factors. One of the main factors is the age and the type of vehicle in which the device will be installed. Older motor vehicles may require more labor and additional parts to properly install the device properly, therefore potentially increasing the installation cost.
On the other hand, newer vehicles with advanced technological features such as auto start may also require extra effort and expertise from technicians, leading to a higher installation fee. Overall, you will likely pay between $70 to $150 for the installation fee for the interlock device. Call your local installation center to make a same-day installation appointment and to verify installation prices.
Monthly Monitoring Fee
The monthly monitoring fee for an ignition interlock device in South Carolina can vary from $30 to 80 dollars, depending on the provider and the cost of calibration and monitoring. This monthly cost is an additional expense on top of the initial installation cost of the device. You can contact the ignition interlock installation location near you for detailed information about monthly monitoring fees.
Financial Assistance
Because installing and maintaining interlock ignition devices can be a financial burden for a lot of people, South Carolina has implemented a program to help individuals afford to keep the devices in their cars. If you need financial assistance in paying for your interlock device, you can submit a financial assessment form to the South Carolina Department of Probation, Parole, and Pardon Services.
You must provide supporting documentation and verification of your income and monthly expenses. After assessment, if they decide that you are eligible for financial assistance and that you qualify as a person with financial hardship, some or all of your fees will be waived.
Additional Fees and Costs
Besides the installation fee and the monthly monitoring fees, you may be required to pay extra additional fees. Sometimes the court requires you to use a camera that records your actions while using the device. This proves that you are indeed using the device and are not asking someone else to blow into the device for you.
You may also be required to buy the feature that has real-time reporting capabilities. The data on your blood alcohol concentration levels will be transmitted to an officer or authority in real time. If you are required to add any of these additional features, you may have additional costs.
Removal Charges
In South Carolina, it is possible to have your device removed at any time. However, removing the device before the authorized time could result in legal repercussions and the suspension of your driving privileges. Additionally, the fees you have paid will not be refunded.
It is essential to obtain approval from the South Carolina Probation, Parole, and Pardons before undergoing removal, as failing to do so may lead to unwanted consequences and exacerbate your situation.
Requirements For Installing an Ignition Interlock Device
Individuals who have received a DUI typically have the option to either have their driver's license suspended or to drive with an interlock device. The majority of people choose to comply with the rules of interlock devices in order to continue driving and participating in daily necessary activities such as work, school, grocery shopping, and medical appointments.
For those who receive a first-offense DUI with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) between .08% and .14%, installation of an ignition interlock device is necessary to avoid suspension of their driver's license. Moreover, individuals convicted of a first-time offense with a BAC of .15% or higher are mandated to utilize an ignition interlock device to reinstate their license after conviction.
What Happens If You Fail an Ignition Interlock Test?
If an IID breath test is failed, the motor vehicle will experience a temporary lock-up, resulting in a brief inability to operate the vehicle. If you pass another test, you will be able to start your car once the lockout period is over.
If you continue to fail additional tests, the lockout period may be extended. The IID records these failures and any attempts and failures will be reported to the authorities. If you continue to damage the device and fail the test, your license will be suspended for an extended period of time. For this reason, it is important that you comply with regulations so your license not be suspended for an extended period and you not have prolonged consequences.
How Do I Get an Ignition Interlock Device?
If you are required to install an Ignition Interlock Device in your vehicle, you should contact your local ignition interlock providers. The customer service representatives at these local companies can answer any pricing questions and can give you detailed information about payment options.
Can a Lawyer Help You Avoid an Ignition Interlock Device?
If you are facing charges of drunk driving, it is important to have a competent and knowledgeable attorney to represent you. At the Touma Law Group, our Greenville criminal defense attorneys can help you avoid the requirement of installing an ignition interlock device on your car. Furthermore, our experienced lawyers will help you understand the ignition interlock laws and guide you through the legal process to ensure that you get the most favorable outcome on your case.
Due to the time-sensitive nature of DUI cases, it is important to have legal representation to defend your freedom and driving privileges. Hiring an attorney to advocate for your rights and protect you from charges could result in significant cost savings by potentially avoiding the installation of an interlock device on your vehicle. Call Touma Law Group for a free consultation today.