Virginia Now Requires Ignition Interlocks for all Convicted of DUIs

Virginia prides itself on being a state with some of the toughest drunk driving laws, and a recent change has made their laws even tougher.

2012-11-06

November 06, 2012 (Press-News.org) Virginia residents facing a DUI conviction have major rights at stake. Virginia prides itself on being a state with some of the toughest drunk driving laws, and a recent change has made their laws even tougher. Governor Bob McDonnell recently signed a bill into law that requires everyone convicted of a DUI to install ignition interlock devices in their vehicles, even those convicted for the first time.

Serious Change in the Law

Ignition interlock devices work by requiring the driver to give a breath sample before the car's engine will start. If the driver's sample shows an alcohol level over a certain amount the engine will not start. Before the new law was put into place, Virginia law required ignition interlock devices only for people convicted of a DUI with a blood alcohol level of 0.15 or more or if the individual had more than one DUI.

Now, everyone convicted of a DUI is required to install the devices. The users are responsible for all costs associated with the ignition interlock device, including installation and monitoring.

Stricter Punishment for Those Convicted for a Second Time

Those convicted of drunk driving for the first time only have to install the ignition interlock device on their primary vehicle. Those convicted more than once must install the device on each car they operate, own or co-own. If the ignition interlock requirement is violated, the DMV will revoke the driver's license for one year. If there is more than one violation the DMV will revoke the driver's license for three years.

Advocates say that ignition interlock devices are a great way to allow those convicted of DUIs to be able to go to and from work and provide for their families. In some states, individuals convicted of DUIs lose their licenses for a specific amount of time.

Protecting Your Rights

Those convicted of a DUI in Virginia have many important rights to think about. Not only will they now have to install ignition interlock devices in their vehicles if convicted, but license restrictions, costs, and even jail time are all at stake. Virginian's can find great help from an attorney specializing in DUI defense.

Article provided by Anderson & Mulrine, PLLC
Visit us at http://www.loudounlawfirm.com

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