As we head into summer, anyone who has an ignition interlock device (IID) installed in their vehicle needs to be aware of the precautions they need to take to prevent damage from the heat and sun. While Illinois doesn’t have the daily extreme summer temperatures of parts of Arizona and Nevada, they do reach well into the 90s.
As most people know, an IID is a Breathalyzer-type device that connects to a vehicle’s ignition. The driver must blow into it to show that they have not been drinking before the vehicle will start. Here in Illinois, an IID is typically required for anyone who is convicted of DUI to be able to get a driver’s license – albeit one that requires them to drive a vehicle in which an IID has been installed.
An IID that is damaged by heat or sun may stop working completely, which means the driver will have to get a new one. That’s an added cost to the other financial losses they’re already facing. Heat could also cause an IID to malfunction and report a “false positive.” That could potentially lead to the complete loss of driving privileges and other penalties.
Simple steps you can take
You can help keep your IID working throughout the hot summer months by doing the following:
- Put sunshades on your windshield and windows to block the sun when you park outside.
- Put a lightweight protective sleeve over it to shield it from the sun. A kitchen towel or anything made from a lightweight (and light colored) fabric can work.
- If your IID has a removable mouthpiece, take it off and keep it with you when you leave your car.
- Keep the windows of your vehicle cracked when you park it – especially outside – to allow some air to circulate.
Knowing what not to do is equally important. For example, don’t aim a fan at your IID or put an ice pack on it. It’s also important not to leave the vehicle running so that the air conditioning stays on if you just have to get out for a few minutes. You could miss a rolling retest, which counts as a violation.
Of course, needing an IID to drive legally is just one of the many consequences of a DUI conviction. The state takes all DUIs – including first offenses – seriously. That’s why it’s wise to get legal guidance if you’re facing a DUI charge to protect your rights and help you work to minimize the consequences.