
If you’re facing charges for Driving Under the Influence (DUI) in Colorado, you may already know that there’s a possibility that you’ll need to install an ignition interlock device on your vehicle to regain your driving privileges.
The technology behind this IID (Ignition Interlock Devices) is designed to prevent an engine from starting if it detects alcohol when you breathe into it. If you’re been arrested for violating different drunk driving laws, an IID may be part of resolving the charges against you.
A knowledgeable Colorado DUI attorney can explain how the IID requirements affect your specific case and how to work with interlock services in Denver. However, a summary of the laws may be helpful.
Offenses That Trigger IID Requirement
The IID laws apply to many different DUI offenses and circumstances, most of which deal with repeat offenders and those charged with excessive BAC drunk driving. The Colorado Department of Revenue, Division of Motor Vehicles has a full list, but the most common offenses that require installation of an IID include:
● DUI Conviction: To get early reinstatement of your driver’s license after a 30-day period, you may be required to install an IID for eight months.
● Excess BAC Convictions: If your case was based upon a BAC of .15 percent or more, there is a two-year IID requirement.
● Refusal to Blow: When you refuse to submit to a chemical test as required by Colorado law, there will be a two-year IID requirement that applies after you’ve served two months of the 12-month driver’s license revocation period.
For subsequent convictions of these offenses, the IID requirement is longer in duration.
Ignition Interlock Service Providers in Denver
Though the list may change periodically, some of the licensed, state-approved IID providers in Colorado include:
● In Denver: Draeger Safety Diagnostics, Guardian Interlock Systems, and Intoxalock;
● LifeSafer of Colorado, in Aurora; and,
● Smart Start, Inc., located in Westminster, CO.
Practical Considerations on Colorado Interlock Services
Once you get your restricted license back after serving a suspension, the full implications of having an IID will be evident. There’s the cost of installation, in addition to filing fees you’ll need to pay to reinstate your driver’s license.
You can only drive vehicles that have IID technology installed, which can be inconvenient if you have multiple personal vehicles. Plus, you’ll need to pay a monthly service fee for each vehicle. The upfront costs and ongoing expenses can be considerable.
Of course, there’s also the appearance of the IID that can affect your life, personally and professionally. In some cases, your employer won’t allow installation of an IID, which means you could be out of work until the full term of your driver’s license suspension.
Colorado DUI Defense Attorney About Services for Interlock in Denver
As you can see, the implications of a DUI conviction extend beyond jail time, fines, probation. If you’ve been charged with DUI in Colorado and have questions about ignition interlock devices, please contact Miller Leonard, PC to schedule a consultation. We can tell you more about your rights and explain IID issues in more detail after reviewing the specifics of your case.