Ignition interlock and your drunk driving offense in Wisconsin

On Behalf of | Nov 21, 2017 | Uncategorized

Drunk driving is a serious crime, and it can have a serious impact on your life, even if it is your first offense. Some Wisconsin drivers make the mistake of underestimating the serious nature of their offense, and as a result, they do not see the importance of presenting a strong defense when facing an OWI. 

In Wisconsin, there are several serious penalties that may come with a conviction for drunk driving. Fortunately, a conviction is never your only option. One of the penalties of driving while drunk is the mandatory installation of an ignition interlock device. In order to effectively confront OWI charges and possibly mitigate some of the penalties you are facing, you would be wise to reach out for defense help as soon as possible after an arrest.

Can they make me put a device in my car?

Ignition interlock devices measure the blood alcohol content of the driver. Before starting the car, a driver will have to breathe into the device, and if the driver has been drinking, the car will not start. Not every person convicted of OWI in Wisconsin will have to install one of these devices, but the following people will be required to do so:

  • Any person who has previous OWIs
  • Any person who refuses to submit to a chemical test
  • Any person convicted of a first OWI with a blood alcohol concentration of .15 or higher

If you meet the above requirements, you must have one of these devices installed in not just your primary vehicle, but every vehicle registered under your name. If you do not have it installed, use it properly, tamper with it, remove it or otherwise do not follow the terms of your court-ordered IID requirement, it can result in an addition of six months to your required time. 

Dealing with the consequences of drunk driving

The installation and maintenance of an IID will be your responsibility, and it can be quite costly. This, in addition to the other costs and penalties that come with drunk driving, can have a significant impact on your life.

You do not have to face these possible consequences on your own, but you can fight them by building a strong defense. With the right help, it is possible to mitigate some of the penalties you are facing or avoid a conviction altogether. You can learn more about your defense options by seeking a complete evaluation of your case.

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