What is an Interlock Ignition Device – Does is Work to Reduce OUI’s?

Many states are now requiring the installation of interlock ignition devices (IIDs) for those convicted of OUI offenses (even first-time offenders). Massachusetts is one of them. But it was a Pennsylvania mom, Angela Daywalt, who recently made national headlines after using her young daughter to bypass the device while she risked both of their lives. In MA, if you are charged with OUI, don’t make the mistake of hiring an inexperienced attorney. A skilled MA criminal defense attorney can position you for the most favorable outcome possible.

What is an Interlock Ignition Device?

An IID is a device that requires a driver to submit an alcohol-free breath sample prior to starting a vehicle. If your car is equipped with an IID, you must blow into the device to start the engine, as well as periodically throughout the drive. In the case of Ms. Daywalt, she was attempting to flee the scene of a drunk driving accident in which she had just been involved, but the intoxicated mom needed a fresh breath sample to re-start her vehicle. To solve her problem, Daywalt asked her eight year old daughter to blow into the device on her behalf.

In addition to drunk driving charges, Daywalt is also facing child endangerment charges and multiple traffic and summary violations. According to witnesses, the mom of the year was seen urging her child to blow into the IID. Although she made it home, police caught up with her shortly thereafter. A subsequent blood alcohol test revealed that she was, indeed, intoxicated. A Boston OUI offense attorney can be the difference between jail time and a full dismissal of your case. If you’ve been charged with OUI, it’s in your best interest to consult with skilled legal counsel immediately.

More Bad Moms

It may seem as though Ms. Daywalt took drunk driving to a new level, but she is not alone. The following mothers have also made some terrible choices that put themselves, and their children at risk.

  • A mom in New York is alleged to have beaten up her nanny when the nanny attempted to stop her from drunk driving with her toddler in the vehicle.
  • Shockingly, former Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) president Debra Oberlin was convicted of drunk driving in Florida.
  • Another PA mom was charged with vehicular homicide after she was involved in a drunk driving accident that resulted in the death of her 14 year old son.
  • An Arizona mom is alleged to have driven away with her infant son in his child safety seat…on the roof of the car. She was allegedly stoned at the time of the incident.

OUI Penalties in MA

If you find yourself in this situation, you may be wondering what potential penalties you are facing. Although other factors, including aggravating circumstances and past criminal history come into play, here are the possible penalties:

  • First offense: License suspension of up to 90 days, $500 to $5,000 fine, jail time of up to 2-and-a-half years.
  • Second offense: License suspension of up to two years, up to $10,000 fine, and jail time of up to 2-and-a-half years.
  • Third offense: License suspension of up to eight years, up to $15,000 fine, and prison time of up to five years.

Altman & Altman, LLP – OUI Offense Lawyers Serving All of Massachusetts

If you have been charged with an OUI, the skilled legal team at Altman & Altman, LLP can help. MA is tough on drunk driving. Even first-time offenders must now get an IID. You will also face license suspension, fines, and possible jail time. And penalties for second and subsequent convictions are much more severe. Don’t make the mistake of consulting with just any lawyer. Who you hire matters. At Altman & Altman, LLP, we have been fighting for the rights of individuals charged with criminal offenses for more than 50 years. We have an impressive track record of getting clients’ charges reduced, or dismissed altogether. If you are facing OUI charges, we can help. Contact Altman & Altman, LLP today for a free and confidential consultation about your case.

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