Benefits of Ignition Interlock Devices

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There is no doubt in anyone’s mind that one of the most important things in life is safety. Whether at home, at work, or, most importantly, while driving. With more and more distractions around us, it’s no surprise that the number of automobile accidents has increased drastically. But no matter what the cause is, top of the list has always been ‘driving under the influence.’

As technology advances around, great efforts have been put into increasing safety while driving. One of these inventions is the development of the Ignition Interlock Device or IID. An ignition lock is a device installed in your car that requires you to blow into it before you can start the car. If your alcohol level is higher than the legal limit, the car will not start.

While many people think that an ignition interlock device is just a hassle to install and costs way too much money, we’re here to share with you just how important and beneficial this device is.

1- It Saves Lives

This is, hands down, the most important benefit of the IID. Since you must exhale into the device to start your car, driving sober is the only option you have. Remember, driving under the influence doesn’t just affect you; there are hundreds of cases worldwide where drunk drivers were the cause for pedestrian and other drivers’ deaths. With an IID installed, fewer intoxicated drivers are on the street.

2- DUI offenders can Drive Legally

Past DUI offenders who have the interlock device installed can once again receive or maintain their legal driving status. This is important since the inability to drive might greatly affect their personal lives, including maintaining a steady job and supporting their families.

3- It Reduces Recidivism

Recidivism rates are basically the number of repeat offenders. With first-time and repeat DUI offenders who have the ignition interlock system installed, these rates have been seen to drop drastically. In some cities where extensive research has been carried out, the number of repeat DUI offenders has decreased at a faster rate with an IID than with legal action like license suspension.

4- It Helps Gather Data

Authorities can easily study the data recorded on ignition interlock devices to help create sound statistics and predict the chances of a person becoming a repeat offender. In some cities, authorities check the data and use it to determine whether or not to restore a person’s full driving privileges.

5- The Family Sleeps Easy

You might not think that this is a very important benefit, especially after everything we’ve just mentioned, but you would be wrong. Repeat offenders and people are known to take risks while drinking and driving can be a real emotional and psychological burden on their loved ones. Lost sleep over safety or worries about fatal accidents can be greatly decreased with an IID installed. And believe us when we say that loved ones would rather get a late-night call asking for a ride than a call with terrible news from the police.

Your Safety is Important

Installing an IID in your vehicle is not as costly as you think when compared to the thousands you would pay in fines or the devastation that comes from a fatality caused by carelessness. At the end of the day, we all want what is best for ourselves and the people we hold dear, and if an interlock ignition device can provide that extra bit of safety that will make everyone rest easier, then, by all means, go for it. Besides, safety should be your number one priority; for you and everyone around you.

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