IIDs are personal breathalyzer devices. They measure your blood alcohol content (BAC) each time you try to start your vehicle.
Drivers are often required to install an IID after a conviction for driving under the influence (DUI). Drivers are legally only allowed to operate a vehicle with an IID after some DUI convictions. Failure to properly use an IID can lead to legal charges.
Get more information about IIDs in Los Angeles with this article. You can also contact us for more direct answers by calling (310) 896-2724.
The Way an IID Works
IIDs are a kind of breathalyzer device. They measure the presence of blood in your system by assessing your breath. IIDs attach directly to the steering column of your vehicle.
In order to turn your vehicle on with an IID, you will have to breathe into the device. The IID will not allow you to drive if your BAC is over a certain limit. Drivers often have to use an IID after they get a conviction for a DUI.
Drivers also have to perform “rolling” tests with an IID installed in their vehicle. This means that you will have to use the IID while driving. Failures are reported and can lead to criminal charges.
Drivers typically have to keep their BAC under 0.08% in order to avoid a DUI charge. However, some drivers using an IID after a DUI conviction have to maintain a lower BAC level. In these cases, an IID will prevent a vehicle from turning on if it detects a BAC is over 0.01%.
Factors That Set Off an IID in California
Drivers who get a DUI conviction are often ordered to install an IID on their vehicle. Drivers with an IID are allowed to get a restricted license. This license allows them to continue driving even after a DUI conviction.
The IID will report any “failures” a driver makes while trying to operate their vehicle. The presence of alcohol can set off an IID.
However, IIDs do not always go off after a driver has had a few drinks. They may also go off if a driver:
- Eats certain foods
- Uses some kinds of mouthwash
- Takes certain medications
These items can contain alcohol in small quantities. The IID cannot distinguish between different kinds of alcohol.
Trying to Cheat an IID Is Against the Law in Los Angeles
Some drivers in Los Angeles consider trying to “cheat” an IID. For example, some drivers will try to get someone else to blow into the IID for them. This is considered a misuse of the IID.
Drivers who try to cheat their IID can face legal consequences. The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) may decide to suspend your license in this situation. Note that it is also against the law to:
- Drive a vehicle without an IID with an IID restricted license
- Try to disable any IID on your vehicle
- Tamper with or break an IID
You can operate your vehicle if you have an IID restricted license in Los Angeles. However, cheating an IID allows the DMV to simply suspend your license. You cannot legally operate a vehicle in Los Angeles with a suspended license.
Ways to Avoid Getting an IID in Los Angeles
Drivers in California often do not want to install an IID on their vehicles. You can avoid the installation of an IID in some situations. For example, the court may not order you to use an IID if:
- Your DUI charges are dismissed
- Your charges are reduced to something less serious
- You win a DUI case in court
Additionally, the court does not have to order the use of an IID for a first-time DUI conviction in Los Angeles. However, drivers convicted of a first-time DUI sometimes request the use of an IID. This is because you can still operate your vehicle if you have an IID.
We are ready to build a defense for you if you are accused of a DUI in Los Angeles. We can work to show you were not impaired at the time of your arrest. We could also demonstrate that you were stopped by the police without reasonable cause.
Get a Free Consultation for Your DUI Charge
An IID may be a substitute for a full license suspension. A Los Angeles DUI lawyer can help you get an IID instead of a license suspension. You can speak with one of our experienced DUI attorneys by calling (310) 896-2724 today.
