You can drive a car with an interlock that is in someone else’s name. However, you’ll still have to blow into the ignition interlock device (IID) and allow it to take your blood alcohol content (BAC) reading before you can operate the vehicle. If you don’t complete this step, you won’t be able to use the car.
It’s also important to make sure you know how to properly operate an IID before you try to turn the vehicle on, or it could end up “locking” you out. Understanding IIDs can be complicated. Fortunately, a DUI lawyer in Los Angeles can answer any questions you have. Let’s take a closer look at IIDs and how you can avoid having one installed in your vehicle.
Regulations on IID Usage in the State of California
California recently rolled out a state-wide IID program for drivers convicted of driving under the influence (DUI). This program requires most drivers to install and use an IID after a DUI conviction. Depending on their charges, drivers may need to use these devices for a few months or several years.
Drivers required to use an ignition interlock device (IID) must install these devices on:
- All vehicles they regularly drive
- All vehicles registered in their name
Although state law allows you to drive a car with an interlock that is in someone else’s name, there are laws surrounding IID usage that drivers must follow. For example, drivers are not legally allowed to operate a vehicle without an IID installed if they have an IID-restricted license. Failure to follow any of these guidelines can result in serious legal consequences.
Understanding How IIDs Function
If you’re wondering whether you can drive a car with an interlock that is in someone else’s name, you might want to learn more about how IIDs are used in California. IIDs are a kind of breathalyzer. They measure a driver’s blood alcohol content (BAC) before allowing the driver to turn on a vehicle. IIDs generally attach directly to the steering column in a vehicle.
Drivers will have to “blow” a BAC test:
- Each time they start the vehicle
- Regularly, while driving in Los Angeles
Drivers who have used a breathalyzer before may be familiar with the techniques used to operate a breathalyzer. You cannot simply get in and blow into the device a few times. Each device works a little differently, but generally, you will have to blow into the device for five seconds, wait, and then blow again.
Failure to properly operate an IID means you will not be able to start the vehicle. If you are driving someone else’s vehicle and they have an IID installed, make sure you get instructions before you try to operate the vehicle.
Considerations When Using Another Person’s IID
While state law does permit you to drive someone else’s vehicle that has an interlock device, you should never try to drive another person’s car if you believe you are impaired by alcohol. The vehicle owner’s IIDs will measure your blood alcohol content (BAC), and the vehicle won’t start if your BAC is elevated, even if you are not over the legal limit.
Additionally, IIDs record all “failures” or times when a driver has an elevated BAC. If you attempt to use someone else’s car that has an IID and fail the BAC test, police officers may question you about this situation.
It’s important to understand that DUI charges are handled very seriously in the state of California. Even attempting to operate a vehicle while under the influence can have legal repercussions. If you had an issue using an IID, you may want to reach out to a Los Angeles DUI attorney.
Blowing in Someone Else’s IID so They Can Drive Is Illegal
Note that it is against the law to blow into an IID on someone else’s vehicle so that they can drive. The current driver of the vehicle is the only person who should utilize the IID. Drivers can face serious penalties if they drive after someone else uses the IID.
The court system in California can suspend a driver’s license for this kind of behavior, and other penalties may also apply. Therefore, you should only use an IID if you plan to drive the vehicle afterward. If you’re facing charges for blowing into someone else’s IID so they could drive, you’ll want to hire an attorney to help with your defense case.
How an Attorney Can Help You With IID Legal Issues
If you’re facing charges for drunk driving, blowing into someone else’s IID so they could drive, or another IID-related offense, you’ll want to take your case seriously. That means working with an attorney to develop a strong defense strategy. Here’s what a lawyer can do to help you avoid the penalties associated with an IID conviction:
- Investigate your case and gather important evidence
- Build a strong defense strategy on your behalf
- Negotiate with prosecutors to obtain a plea deal
- Represent you in court
- Present strong evidence and legal arguments at trial
- Fight to get your charges reduced or dropped
- Advise you on whether you can drive a car with an interlock in someone else’s name
- Advise you on how to avoid having an IID installed in your vehicle
- Offer effective legal advice throughout your case
As you can see, there’s a lot that a lawyer can do to help you avoid a DUI or IID-related conviction. To get started on your defense case, you’ll want to schedule a free consultation with an attorney you can trust. An experienced lawyer can provide the information and resources you need to protect yourself from serious fines and penalties.
Learn More About Driving a Car With an Interlock in Someone Else’s Name
If you have more questions about whether you can drive a car with an interlock that is in someone else’s name or if you’ve been charged with a DUI-related offense, you’ll want to turn to the team at Los Angeles DUI Lawyer for help.
Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and learn more about the services we offer. We’ll meet with you to discuss your case and answer any questions you have about the legal process. We look forward to hearing from you soon and providing the resources you need to understand California DUI law and fight any charges you may be facing.
