New Jersey Lawmakers Consider Reducing License Suspension Times but Mandating Ignition Interlock Devices in DWI Cases

If you have been arrested for driving while intoxicated (DWI), call our New Jersey DWI attorneys to discuss your case and begin planning your next steps. These are extremely serious charges that should never be taken lightly since they can negatively impact many aspects of your future. For years, we have zealously advocated for New Jersey clients and you can rest assured that if we take on your case, we will proudly do the same for you.

Potential New Law

New Jersey lawmakers are considering revamping New Jersey DWI laws to reduce the amount of time for which a person caught driving under the influence in the state would lose their driver’s license. But there is a catch. In exchange, the driver would be mandated to install an ignition interlock device into his or her vehicle. An ignition interlock device is a breathalyzer for a person’s vehicle, which requires that the driver blow into a mouthpiece on the device before starting the vehicle. Currently, state law requires repeat drunk drivers and first-time drunk drivers with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .15 or higher to install ignition interlock devices; however, the installation of these devices is not legally required for other first time offenders.

One supporter of the law calls it a “commonsense” bill based on a compromise. Data from the International Council on Alcohol, Drugs and Traffic Safety has revealed that ignition interlock devices, when coupled with other measures, reduced the rate of repeat drunk driving incidents by 40 to 95 percent reduction among offenders so long as the device remained on the automobile.

Preventing Installation of the Ignition Interlock Device

If a person convicted of a DWI is ordered to install an ignition interlock device in his or her car, it is typically installed after the driver’s license suspension period is over. If the law changes, however, and first-time offenders have to install it then it will be installed right after the conviction. When installation of the ignition interlock device is mandated by law, the only way to prevent its installation is by challenging the prosecution’s proof that you were intoxicated behind the wheel. When police pull someone over on suspicion of drunk driving, they must follow certain protocol. If this protocol was not followed, the charges against you may be reduced or dismissed. For example, if there was no probable cause to stop the car or the breathalyzer test was administered incorrectly, we may be able to challenge the charges.

Reputable New Jersey DWI Attorney

DWI charges can result in serious repercussions if unaddressed. If you or someone close to you has been arrested or charged with a DWI, whether it is a first offense or subsequent offense, it is vital to retain a seasoned New Jersey DWI attorney who understands the nuances of this area of law. We understand that dealing with such charges can be a stressful and even frightening experience, but you don’t have to go through it alone. For more information, please call us today at 877-450.8301 or contact us online.

More Blog Posts:

More than 20,000 NJ DWI Convictions Could be Tossed Out

Bar Serving Alcohol Settles Case After Fatal New Jersey DWI Crash

Contact Information