Virginia recently passed a tough new drunk driving law requiring those who receive their first-ever drunk driving conviction to have an ignition interlock device installed on their vehicles. Now, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is encouraging other states and the District of Columbia to adopt similar measures.
The push is based on research by advocacy groups that show that drivers with one or more DUI (driving under the influence) convictions are four times more likely to cause a fatal accident than drivers with no DUI convictions. Often, these fatal accidents are the result of the driver once again choosing to get behind the wheel after drinking.
An ignition interlock device connects to a vehicle’s starter. It requires the driver to provide a breath sample before the vehicle will start. If the sample tests positive for alcohol, the device prevents the car from starting and also registers a positive reading, which can be downloaded for later analysis.
In order to encourage more states to implement ignition interlock requirements for first-time DUI recipients, the NHTSA is offering increased federal highway funding to states that put the new rule into play. Maryland currently requires ignition interlock devices for second or later DUIs and for those with a high blood alcohol concentration (BAC), but not for all first-time offenders.
A drunk driving conviction can seriously impact the life of a Maryland driver. If you’re facing DUI charges, the skilled St. Mary’s County DUI defense attorneys at Alpert Schreyer can provide you the legal representation you need to defend you from harsh penalties. Call us today at (800) 489-1577 or (301) 863-9997 for a free, confidential consultation.
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