Does an ignition interlock device deter drivers from driving under the influence (DUI)? Yes, according to a recent study by researchers at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. The study, published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine, reports that states that require ignition interlocks for all drunk driving offenders experienced a 7 percent reduction in fatal drunk driving crashes. If you think that 7 percent reduction isn't much, think again. There were 35,092 fatal car accidents in 2015 and more than one third of those involved a driver who had been drinking. Of those drivers, 29 percent were legally drunk and 20 percent had a blood alcohol content (BAC) almost twice the legal limit or higher. So that 7 percent reduction? It amounted to 1,250 lives being saved.

DUI reduced in states with ignition interlock mandates

The Johns Hopkins study, “Ignition Interlock Laws: Effects on Fatal Motor Vehicle Crashes, 1982-2013,” is a comprehensive study that considered a variety of traffic safety measures that may contribute to decreases in drunk driving fatalities. Considering all factors, the researchers credited laws requiring ignition interlocks for all DUI offenders with the reduction in fatal drunk driving crashes where the driver had a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) or 0.08 or higher.

The study suggested that just knowing a first time DUI offense would require an ignition interlock device influenced drivers, causing them to think twice about driving under the influence, even for drivers with no previous DUI convictions. The study indicated that partial laws that do not mandate ignition interlock devices for all offenders were less effective in reducing the instance of DUI.

Tennessee DUI laws regarding interlock ignition devices

Vehicle ignition interlock devices ensure a motor vehicle cannot be started if the driver has a certain blood alcohol concentration (BAC). In Tennessee, a judge can order an ignition interlock device installed at your expense. Individuals who have been convicted of driving under the influence twice in a 5 year period are required to install an ignition interlock device and maintain in the vehicle for six months after their driver's license has been reinstated.

Ignition Interlock devices must be installed by an approved provider. Costs include the following:

• Ignition interlock installation fee: maximum of $150
• Monthly fee for leasing, maintenance, and/or monitoring: maximum of $100 per month
• Ignition interlock removal fee: maximum of $75

DUI charges are serious, trust an experienced Tennessee DUI lawyer

Driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or drugs is a crime with serious consequences.  If you are facing a DUI charge, it is important to understand your rights and the penalties under the law. The skilled criminal defense attorneys at Dotson & Taylor Attorneys at Law in Murfreesboro successfully represent those charged with DUI. Our team has more than 40 years of combined experience and we are here to help. Schedule a free consultation today by contacting our office at 615-890-1982 or online. We offer weekend and evening appointments for your convenience.