What to Know About Ignition Interlock Devices in New Jersey

Reviewed by Daniel P. McNerney, Esq.

If you are charged with a DWI in New Jersey, you will face some serious consequences. One consequence you may face is an ignition interlock device. These devices are installed when an individual faces certain DWI charges. You will have to utilize the ignition interlock device for a certain amount of time, depending on a number of different factors. Some of these factors include your BAC, your previous charges, and so on. Read on to learn more about ignition interlock devices in New Jersey. Under N.J.S.A. 39:4-50, first-time offenders with a blood alcohol concentration between 0.08% and 0.10% must maintain the device for three months, while those with a BAC between 0.10% and 0.15% face a mandatory installation period of seven to twelve months.

What is an Ignition Interlock Device?

An ignition interlock device is a device that is installed in your car. It requires individuals to take a breathalyzer test each time they wish to start their car. If the ignition interlock device reads a level of 0.05% BAC or higher, the car will not start. Depending on the specific device or court order, some devices may prevent the vehicle from starting if your blood alcohol concentration is above 0.025%. In some cases, in order to ensure that someone else did not blow into the device, breath tests will be required while driving.

If you do not provide a breath sample when prompted while operating the vehicle, an alarm will go off, requiring you to safely pull over. If an individual does not own a car, the device must be installed on any car that they may operate. Individuals who must participate in this program are required to pay for the installation and other expenses related to the device, making a DWI even more expensive. It’s also important to understand that if you fail to install an ignition interlock device in your vehicle, or you are discovered operating a vehicle that does not have an IID installed, you can face another driver’s license suspension  of one-year in accordance with N.J.S.A. 39:4-50.19.

What Do I Need to Know About New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission Interlock Requirements?

The New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission requires that the ignition interlock device meets the following criteria:

• The device must be installed at a service center designated by the Motor Vehicle Commission
• The device must be able to detect a blood alcohol content of 0.05 percent
• The device must be serviced every 67 days
• The device requires a label warning of civil liability or prosecution for anyone who tampers with the device

Per N.J.S.A. 39:4-50.18, a device may only be removed by a vendor at the end of the required installation period if data shows the driver has only one failed test during the final 30 days in which the device is installed. If you are facing a DWI charge in New Jersey, contact our firm today to speak with an experienced criminal defense attorney. Our firm is here to advocate for you and explore all possible avenues of defense. Do not hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns.

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Here at McNerney & McAuliffe, we understand how confusing certain legal matters can be, which is why we are here to provide clients from all walks of life with the experienced, compassionate legal guidance they need. If you require the legal assistance of an attorney to help you through a criminal law matter, personal injury matter, family law matter, or otherwise, you can turn to us. Contact McNerney & McAuliffe today to learn more about what we can do for you.