Catching drunk or drugged drivers is a top priority for Texas law enforcement. A conviction can come with a prison sentence, expensive fines, a loss of driving privileges and an order to install an ignition interlock device. Fortunately, depending on the nature of your case, a local DWI defense lawyer may be able to help you avoid one or more of these penalties.
If you are facing charges for driving while intoxicated, then contact a Dallas DWI attorney from the Law Offices of Robert Gregg. Mr. Gregg can evaluate your case and identify an appropriate defense strategy. He can aggressively fight for a positive outcome to your case. Call (214) 891-7536 to start planning your defense.
Until then, here are four facts to know about ignition interlock devices in Texas:
- You need a restricted interlock license to operate an ignition interlock device.
The Texas Department of Public Safety issues restricted interlock licenses to people who have been convicted of DWI and ordered to install ignition interlock devices. This license authorizes you to operate a vehicle with a certified ignition interlock device; however, the DPS will deny this license if:
- Your driver’s license is currently expired;
- A court ordered the suspension of your driver’s license;
- Or you did not pay the required interlock device fees.
- You will have to pay all costs associated with the ignition interlock device.
If the judge orders you to install an ignition interlock device on your vehicle, you will have to pay the fees. If the device is too expensive for you to afford, then you may have to pay it according to a specified court schedule, which may not exceed the period that the court’s order stipulates.
You will also have to pay for maintenance of the device. If you fail to pay, then you may face additional penalties.
- Ignition interlock devices prevent your car from starting if you have been drinking.
The purpose of an ignition interlock device is to prevent drunken drivers from driving. To start the vehicle, you will have to breathe directly into the device, which will then measure your BAC.
You will have to do this again after 5 minutes to prevent the engine from stopping. From there, you will have to breathe into the IID every 30 minutes.
- You can only install ignition interlock devices at certified centers.
You cannot buy an ignition interlock device and install it yourself or get a friend to help. All court-ordered ignition interlock devices have to come exclusively from DPS-certified facilities. The Regulatory Services Division of the DPS is the only agency authorized to certify these centers.
Depending on the circumstances of your arrest, there may be a defense that convinces the courts to reduce the charges or penalties, or to dismiss the case altogether. Perhaps law enforcement violated your rights during the arrest, or maybe the breathalyzer was incorrectly calibrated.
Robert Gregg is a Dallas DWI attorney who can help you navigate the legal system. Call the Law Offices of Robert Gregg at (214) 891-7536 today to schedule a consultation with a local DWI defense lawyer.