A Breath Alcohol Ignition Interlock Device (BAIID) is a mechanism that is used in NJ drunk driving cases to make sure that you are not legally intoxicated before you are able to start your car.
Before starting the engine you must give a breath sample. If your blood alcohol content (BAC) exceeds 0.05%, the engine will not start. Even if it does start, the device does require a periodic breath sample from you while the vehicle is in use (although it will not shut off the engine once the vehicle is in use).
One thing the device cannot determine, however, is who is driving. Therefore, if you have on in your car, you should be very careful who you allow to drive it while it is installed, as you will be held responsible for any consequences if that driver was drinking.
What Cars Must Have an Interlock Installed?
As of December 1, 2019, the use of interlock devices has replaced license suspension in certain circumstances. As such, you will be required to have one installed on a vehicle you own, lease, or regularly operate, but the period of time can differ.
- First Offense:
- BAC from 0.08% to less than 0.10%: 3 months
- BAC from 0.10% to less than 0.15%: 7 - 12 months
- Second Offense: During 1-2 year license suspension, plus an additional 2-4 years
- Third/Subsequent Offense: During 8 year license suspension, plus an additional 2-4 years
The company that installs it must check it at least once every 67 days and maintain a record of any tampering.
The requirement of a BAIID is one of several things that can happen to you if you are convicted of a DUI in New Jersey.
So What Do I Do?
The requirement of an IID on your car can cost you hundreds to thousands of dollars depending on how long you have to have it installed. This may also be in addition to a license suspension. This makes having an experienced DUI lawyer on your side all the more impoirtant.
If you have been charged with drunk driving inBurlington, Camden, Gloucester, Salem or Cumberland County please feel free to call me at 856-432-4113 or contact me through this site to schedule a free consultation.
If you are looking for more information on New Jersey's drunk driving law, then download my free book, How Much Trouble Am I In? A Guide to New Jersey Drunk Driving Law.
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