As we’ve discussed here before, Maryland laws have increased the likelihood of needing to install an ignition interlock device (IID) on your vehicle(s) if you’ve been convicted of DUI and want to continue to be able to legally drive. The IID may have to stay on for months to years, depending on whether it was a first or subsequent offense and the seriousness of the specific charge(s).
As we go into November, if you have an IID on a vehicle, it’s important to realize that it can be affected by cold temperatures that come with a Maryland winter. By avoiding things that can interfere with your IID’s performance, you can prevent problems that can cause this delicate piece of equipment to malfunction and potentially land you in legal jeopardy.
Don’t let your vehicle battery run down
While an IID won’t affect your battery’s life much, it does depend on a working battery to function correctly. That’s why it’s important to have your battery checked and possibly replaced before your IID is installed. Take care not to do things that could drain your battery, like leaving your car sitting for days or letting the heater run for too long to get a comfortable temperature before you get in.
Don’t leave the ignition on if you won’t be in the car
Speaking of letting the car “warm up,” don’t turn it on and then go back in the house or down the driveway to shovel snow. The IID is programmed to require rolling retests periodically once the ignition is on. If you miss one, it’s considered a failed test.
Don’t let your IID get too cold
If an IID gets too cold, it will need more time to read your test – and let you get on the road. You can buy or make a cover for your IID to put over it when you park.
While having an IID can be an inconvenience, it’s far preferable to driving without a valid license or getting another DUI. It’s wise to learn as much as possible about how it works before you get it – and to resolve any issues that arise from a failed test due to a technical problem (or anything else) as soon as possible. Having legal guidance can help in both these areas.