If you have been arrested for and charged with a drunk driving offense in Connecticut, it is understandable and reasonable for you to begin learning about some of the penalties associated with a conviction for these types of charges. If you are ultimately convicted of your driving under the influence charge, it is possible that you may be required to use what is called an ignition interlock device. This is essentially a device that is intended to prevent you from driving if you have been drinking.
As explained by Intoxalock, an IID manufacturer, ignition interlock devices are hardwired into your vehicle and essentially control the ignition of your vehicle. There is also a corresponding handheld unit into which you must blow to provide a breath sample before you want to start your vehicle. The unit measures any alcohol content in your breath to determine whether or not you are allowed to start your car. If your breath alcohol content measures below the programmed level, you will be allowed to start your vehicle and drive normally. If not, your ignition will remain locked.
It is important that you know that you will be required to take subsequent breath tests while you are actively driving as well. These are called rolling retests and any failure of these may result in alerts being signalled until you stop your vehicle.
If you would like to learn more about exactly what it is like to use an ignition interlock device or better understand any other penalties associated with a DUI, please feel free to visit the drunk driving charges page of our Connecticut criminal defense website.