February 16, 2012
/24-7PressRelease/ -- Maryland Expands Its Ignition Interlock Program
In Maryland, a conviction for driving while intoxicated (DWI) or driving under the influence (DUI) may result in a drivers' license suspension, leaving those with suspended licenses to face the daily inconvenience of being unable to drive. Now Maryland's ignition interlock program has been expanded to allow more people with DUIconvictions to continue driving their own cars safely and legally.
Ignition Interlock Devices
An ignition interlock device installed in a vehicle requires the driver to exhale into a breath analyzer before the engine will start. If the device detects even a trace of alcohol, the ignition locks up and the vehicle cannot be started.
A monitor that records such violations is periodically checked, and a violation can result in a fine, license suspension or even imprisonment. Drivers who participate in an ignition interlock program must successfully complete six months or more without attempting to drink and drive before the device can be removed from their cars.
Maryland has used an ignition interlock program for some people with DUI convictions since 1989. In the past three years, participation in the program grew dramatically, from about 5,500 drivers to over 9,000. Finding the program to be an effective tool in combating repeat offenses, Maryland lawmakers recently enacted the 2011 Drunk Driving Reduction Act, which took effect October 1, 2011.
Change to Maryland's Ignition Interlock Program
The new law allows people convicted of DUI to choose either using an ignition interlock device or drivers' license suspension as their penalty if they fall into any of these categories of drivers:
-20-years-of-age or under who have broken any of their alcohol restrictions
-Repeat alcohol offense of any kind within a 5-year period
-Convicted of DUI with a blood alcohol concentration measuring 0.15 or more
The law also allows drivers to opt into an ignition interlock program after initially having their drivers' licenses suspended.
Anyone arrested for drunk driving could benefit from consulting with a DUI and DWI defense attorney. An attorney can provide more information on the new drunk driving law and advise whether the ignition interlock program may be available in an individual case.
Article provided by Greenberg Law Offices
Visit us at http://www.greenberglawyers.com
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