Illinois recently enacted a law requiring certain DUI offenders to install a Breath Alcohol Ignition Interlock Device (BAIID) into their cars upon a conviction for DUI. In addition, persons who had their driver's license suspended as a result of a chemical test refusal or "failure" (by providing a sample of .08 or higher) may be eligible for a Monitored Device Driving Permit (MDDP) that allows the person to drive so long as a BAIID is installed on their vehicle.
What is a BAIID?
A BAIID is a small handheld breath test device that is installed into your car's ignition system. In order to start the vehicle, a breath sample under .025 must be given. The BAIID will also require random addition breath samples while the car is in motion (to prevent a sober friend from starting the car for a drunk driver). The BAIID device stores all test results and communicates them to the proper authorities. BAC violations and attempts to tamper or circumvent the device will result in the imposition of further penalties.
Illinois DUI offenders who are required to have a BAIID installed may only operate cars equipped with the device. Persons caught driving a car without a device will be charged with a felony offense and sentenced to a mandatory minimum of 30 days in jail. Persons who need to operate a company vehicle owned by their employer during the scope of their employment without a BAIID must get special permission by the court and notify their employer.
How much does a BAIID cost?
The cost of installation is around $100, and monthly rental payments run about $80 per month. A monthly monitoring fee of $30 also applies. The monitoring fee is paid to the Secretary of State for the monthly monitoring of the device. The DUI offender is responsible for all costs associated with the BAIID.
