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Preventing Problems With Your Ignition Interlock Device
If you’re required to get an ignition interlock device (IID) after a drunk driving conviction in South Carolina, you must follow the rules of the Ignition Interlock Device Program (IIDP). Having an IID installed in your vehicle(s) allows you to drive legally on a “II” restricted license for as long as you’re required to be in the program. These rules include having a device that’s made by a certified IID manufacturer and having the device monitored and serviced at an authorized service center on a specific schedule.
The fewer problems you have with your IID, the more quickly and easily you’ll complete the program and get your unrestricted license back. Having a blood alcohol content above the limit set by the court (usually .02 or less) when you blow into the IID or failing to do one of the “rolling retests” are automatically reported as violations.
What can cause a false violation report?
There are other issues that can cause your IID to falsely report a violation. These are easily preventable, but it’s important to know about them so you can prevent them. These include:
- A dead battery: If your battery dies, that may show up as a violation. That’s why it’s important to make sure you have a good working battery before you have your IID installed and don’t do anything like leaving your car sitting unused for a long time that would cause the battery to drain.
- Leaving your running vehicle unattended: If the engine is running, it could trigger a rolling retest, even if you’re not driving. Therefore, you never want to be away from your car while it’s running – for example, to let it warm up or to retrieve something from the house.
- Cold temperatures: The components of an IID can freeze and malfunction in very cold temperatures. That’s less of a problem in South Carolina than in many parts of the country. However, if you’re traveling to a colder climate (assuming you’re not restricted from traveling out of state), talk with your IID service provider about how you can prevent problems.
Before you decide to get an IID, make sure you understand and can comply with the requirements. Failing to do so will just land you in even more legal jeopardy. If you run into problems, don’t hesitate to learn more about your defense options.