Yet again law enforcement is adding another layer to our already tough DUI laws — all new ignition interlock devices will feature a camera. And if you didn’t already know, anyone convicted for DUI is required to have an ignition interlock device (IID) on the car they drive for a minimum of one year.
IID’s are what a person blows into get his car started and/or keep it running, and the device will shut the car down if it detects alcohol in a person’s breath sample. In Washington, the IID was instituted as a way to keep those convicted of driving under the influence of alcohol from reoffending and is a mandatory condition of any DUI conviction.
With the new IID’s, a camera will automatically take a snapshot of the driver whenever a sample is required thus ensuring that the driver is actually the one blowing into the device. The camera will actually take two photos successive photos of the person whose breath is being sampled. The first is taken when the device alerts the driver to provide a breath sample, and the second is snapped while the driver is actively blowing into the IID. The photos are then sent to the device’s manufacturer, and can be ordered by law enforcement if a question arises about someone faking the test(s).
Under the new requirements, those offenders who already have received a yearlong restriction are exempt from the camera feature, but those with 5 and 10 year restrictions have until June 2013 to go to a shop and upgrade to the new device, or risk having their licenses suspended.
It is anticipated that the new camera-equipped device will cost approximately $85 per month, plus the currently monthly fee of $20 to the Department of Licensing fee, and the monthly $5 fee of Washington State Patrol.
As Washington DUI laws get even tougher, it should be readily apparent that retaining a reputable and qualified Seattle DUI lawyer is of paramount importance when a person is arrested for Driving Under the Influence. The right Seattle DUI attorney will be worth his/her weight in gold when protecting your rights, freedom and future. The Seattle DUI attorneys that make up the litigation team of SQ Attorneys are dedicated to defending those accused of drunk driving. They have the experience, knowledge and resources to successfully defend your case. Unlike other law firms that practice in many areas of the law, SQ Attorneys is focused on criminal defense representation with an emphasis on DUI defense in Western Washington.
If you or a loved one is faced with a DUI charge in Western Washington, you deserve the assistance of a reputable and qualified Seattle DUI attorney who will relentlessly defend your case. You deserve a Seattle DUI lawyer who has an intimate understanding of Washington DUI laws and the legal issues that could win your case. You deserve a Seattle DUI attorney who is not afraid to stand up against the prosecution and aggressively fight for your rights and interests. SQ Attorneys is the right Western Washington DUI law firm for the job. Call for a free initial consultation – (206) 441.0900 (Seattle); (425) 998-8384 (Eastside) – it will be the best decision you make all day.