Michigan Ignition Interlock Device

You can be sentenced to a variety of penalties if you are convicted of operating a vehicle while intoxicated (OWI) in the state of Michigan. With punishments ranging from community service to jail time, the consequences of an OWI conviction can be life-altering for many residents. In many cases, the judge may even order you to install a Michigan ignition interlock device in your vehicle.

Similar to the breath testing device used by police officers, an ignition interlock device is a small machine that is installed in your vehicle’s glove compartment. Once the device is installed, you must pass a breath test before the vehicle can be driven. To do this, you will have to breathe into the device every time you attempt to start your engine. If your blood alcohol content (BAC) is above the limit specified in your sentence, the vehicle will not start.

Once you start your vehicle, you may have to perform additional breath tests as you are driving. These “rolling retests” are used to prevent drivers from having a sober friend or family member blow into the device for them. The ignition interlock device is also tamperproof. If anyone tries to dislocate the mechanism, an alarm will sound, and the attempt will be documented. 

All of your test results will be recorded in the device’s memory. When you take your device in for service, all of the documented information will be downloaded, and reported to the court and/or your probation officer.

You are responsible for all of the costs associated with the ignition interlock device. Along with an initial installation fee of $100 to $200, you can expect to pay anywhere from $70 to $100 in monthly rental fees. You will also have to pay for any required maintenance and/or calibration fees. 

If you were recently charged with OWI in Michigan, attorney Patrick T. Barone may be able to help you avoid having an ignition interlock device installed in your vehicle. Don’t let one mistake ruin jeopardize your future. Contact the Barone Defense Firm for a free consultation on your case. 

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