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Once convicted for Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) in Texas, the defendant will have to address numerous challenges. These challenges include the financial costs associated with responding to criminal charges, jail time, driving restrictions, and more. The severity of the penalties for DWI are multifaceted and intended as a deterrent for would-be offenders.
One of the main deterrents, and most subtle of consequences for being convicted of Drunk Driving in Houston, is a court-ordered requirement for the installation of a Breath Alcohol Ignition Interlock Device (BAIID). These devices are also referred to as an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) or a Vehicle Breathalyzer.
Facing Prosecution for Drunk Driving? Call Tad at 281-502-2122.
About Auto Breathalyzers
The purpose of the ignition interlock device is to test the breath of the driver to determine if they’re intoxicated before allowing the vehicle to start.
In order to start the vehicle, the driver is required to blow into the device for a quick Blood Alcohol Content test which will determine if the driver is below the lawful blood alcohol limit. If the driver is above their legal limit, or if the machine detects alcohol on the breath of the driver, the vehicle will not start.
It’s also worth pointing out that you may be required to interface with the device throughout your travels, multiple times during your trip(s). Also, if alcohol is detected on your breath, the court may be notified via technology embedded within the device. If this turns out to be the case, your probation, or the agreement with the court, may be revoked and you’ll be immediately jailed.
Furthermore, if the Harris County criminal court allows you to take advantage of the IID program, you may be required to obtain a special restricted Texas Driver License from DPS.
When Are Ignition Interlock Devices Required?
Depending on the court, the judge, and the offender, an IID may be required for a 1st offense misdemeanor drunk driver. A person charged with Drunk Driving, and found to have a blood/alcohol content level above 0.15%, will be required by Texas law to install an IID in their vehicle if they wish to continue driving legally. Otherwise, they’ll face a traditional drivers license suspension which will involve the revocation of their driving privileges for up to 2 years.
If the defendant was convicted of intoxication manslaughter, they’ll be required to have an IID installed in their vehicle. This is the law in Texas and will be added to any sentencing & requirements of the court. Habitual DWI offenders may also be required to have an IID installed in their vehicle.
Arrested for Driving While Intoxicated? Call us at 281-502-2122!
Avoid Conviction & Avoid the Ignition Interlock Device
A Skilled & Highly Trained Houston Drunk Driving Lawyer
Drunk Driving Defense Attorney Tad Nelson brings over 28 years of experience as a DWI lawyer in Houston to your corner. This is in addition to specialized training as it relates to forensic toxicology, gas chromatography, alcohol detection devices, and the required training for law enforcement officers to gain certification to employ such devices.
Attorney Tad A. Nelson will carefully review & examine all the evidence in your case. Our legal team will carefully study the tests, the conditions in which your test was administered, the integrity of the alcohol detection equipment used by law enforcement, and all potential for false positives.
Attorney Tad Nelson is Board Certified® by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization in Criminal Law, a distinction enjoyed by a small percentage of the best lawyers in Texas.
This is in addition to being a lifelong member of the National College of DUI Defense, a founding member of the DUI Defense Lawyers Association, an ACS/CHAL Forensic Lawyer-Scientist, and a constant student of his profession as a DWI defense attorney in addition to a number of other earned certifications and accolades.
If you need to talk with a skilled attorney regarding a DWI case, contact us to schedule your free and confidential consultation today.