One of the most inconvenient penalties that may follow a drunk driving conviction in Maryland is having an ignition interlock device placed on your vehicle. That being said, participating in the Ignition Interlock Program could allow you to keep your driver’s license following a DUI conviction. The following is a brief overview of ignition interlock laws in Maryland and how they may apply to those in Upper Marlboro.
What is an ignition interlock device?
An ignition interlock device is a device connected to your car’s ignition system that works much like a Breathalyzer. You will blow into mouthpiece connected to the device, and if the device detects that you have a BAC above the nominal amount of 0.025, the device will stop your car from starting. Rolling retests, that is, tests performed while driving, may be required.
Can I opt-in to the Ignition Interlock Program?
Depending on the circumstances, you may be given the opportunity to opt-in to the Ignition Interlock Program, rather than having your license suspended. If your BAC was between 0.08 and 0.15, your participation in the program will last for 180 days. If your BAC was 0.15 or higher, your participation in the program will last for one year. If you refused to submit to a breath test at all, your participation in the program will also last for one year.
Learn more about Maryland’s Ignition Interlock Program
As this shows, while having an ignition interlock device placed on your car can be inconvenient, it can be a way for you to keep your driver’s license following a DUI conviction. This can be essential if you drive to work, use your car to run necessary errands and go to medical and other appointments. Those in Maryland who want to learn more about how the Ignition Interlock Program applies to them may want to seek the advice of an attorney for further information.