Alaska Ignition Interlock Devices

Depending on the facts and circumstances of your case, persons convicted of DUI in Alaska may be required to install an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) as a requirement of probation or parole. An IID is a small handheld breath testing device that is installed into the steering column of a car. It requires an individual to provide a clean breath sample in order to start the vehicle's ignition. Additionally, random breath samples are also required periodically while the car is in motion. The device allows for enough time between sample and alarm to ensure that the driver will be given time to safely provide a sample. Failure to provide a sample, however, or a sample over a certain BAC level (typically .03) will result in the sounding of alarms that require the driver to pull over. The ignition interlock device stores all information and relays it to the proper authorities. Attempting to drive with an illegal blood alcohol content is considered a probation violation and further penalties may be imposed.

The IID must be installed on every vehicle the defendant owns and operates on a regular basis. It is illegal for an offender required to have the device to operate any vehicle that is not equipped with an IID. Pursuant to Alaska's Iginition Interlock statute, judges may allow a DUI defendant to use a car without an IID device that is owned by their employer and operated in the scope of employment. In such situations, judges typically require a letter signed by the employer acknowledging that he was told of the IID requiment, and that such letter must be kept in the car's vehicle at all times.

IID's are installed at designated ignition interlock service centers. DUI offenders are requierd to pay the cost of installation as well as the monthly payments for the duration of the sentence. Attempts to tamper or circumvent the IID will result in imposition of further penalties. DUI defendants court ordered to install an IID who are caught operating a vehicle without the device may be charged with an additional misdomeanor offense.

For more information on ignition interlock devices and how they may affect your case, contact an experienced attorney in your area.