It can be easy to underestimate how much you had to drink before getting behind the wheel. When you get stopped on your way home and wait for the officer to approach your car, you can start to worry if you had too much and what will happen next.
Facing drunk driving charges can be complex. Like many other states, Illinois has tightened up its rules for dealing with drunk drivers, including requiring an ignition interlock device.
Here’s what you should know about when you need to have an ignition interlock after a DUI.
First-time offenders and beyond
In most cases, your first (and subsequent) DUI conviction will result in a requirement for a Breath Alcohol Ignition Interlock Device (BAIID) on your vehicle. The device measures your alcohol level and records your image as you take the breath test.
In addition to the BAIID, you will also need a special permit called a Monitoring Device Driving Permit (MDDP). Once you have the permit, you have 14 days to have a BAIID installed on any vehicle you intend to drive while under the restriction.
Do I have to have the BAIID installed on my vehicle?
Once you have an order to have a BAIID, there is one alternative to having a BAIID on your vehicle; not driving. You can choose not to drive during the suspension period, but that means you cannot drive any car for any reason.
Driving during the suspension period is a Class 4 felony that could result in a $25,000 fine and jail time.
Facing drunk driving charges can lead to serious consequences that could impact your future. It is essential to talk to a skilled professional about your charges.