Kentucky DUI offenders who are convicted of a second or subsequent offense may be required to install an ignition interlock device (IID) in their vehicle. Kentucky law offers ignition interlocks as an alternative to the license plate impound requirement. The device will be installed upon reinstatement of the person's driving privileges following the term of a license suspension. DUI offenders who are required to install an IID for the first time must do so for a period of 6 months. If previously ordered to install an IID, the period of installation is 12 months, or 30 months for those persons ordered to install an IID for the third or subsequent time.
Kentucky DUI offenders are responsible for paying the cost of installation of the device as well as the monthly payments. Employees who must drive a company owned car in the scope of their employment may be permitted to operate such a vehicle without an IID device. Permission must be obtained by the court, however, and typically the employer must be notified of the IID requirement and proof of notification must be kept in the vehicle at all times.
IID devices must be installed on all vehicles the Kentucky DUI offender owns and operates on a regular basis. Any person who wishes to operate the vehicle must use the device in order to start the vehicle's ignition. Any breath sample above a certain BAC (usually .02) will not allow the vehicle to start. Random breath samples will also be required periodically while the car is in motion to prevent a sober friend from starting the vehicle. Failure to provide a sample or a sample over the requisite BAC level will result in the sounding of an alarm/horn. If a breath sample is not given or a sample over the limit is recorded, the car's horn will honk until the ignition is turned off. The device will never immobilize the vehicle, so that accidents may be prevented.
All information regarding breath samples are stored and recorded. IID's are designed to prevent any tampering. Attempts to tamper or circumvent the device will result in imposition of further penalties. It is a misdemeanor offense in Kentucky to violate the IID requirements.
For more information on ignition interlock devices and how they may affect your case, contact an experienced Kentucky DUI attorney in your area.
