It is easier than many people might think to be charged with a drunk driving offense in Wisconsin. Alcohol is commonly served at social events and it is still acceptable to have a casual drink or two and then drive home. Depending on a person’s size, gender, food consumption and more, a blood alcohol level of 0.08% is not difficult to reach. If you have been arrested for and charged with an operating while intoxicated offense, you will want to know about the state’s law regarding the use of ignition interlock devices.

IIDs are intended to prevent a person from driving under the influence by requiring a breath test be passed before a vehicle’s ignition can be started. According to the Wisconsin Department of Transportation, you might be required to install an IID even after a first OWI offense if your BAC was over 0.14%. You may be required to use an IID for a second offense regardless of your BAC level. 

If you must install an IID, you will be ordered to do so on every vehicle you own. There is a possibility that you could get an exemption for some vehicles if you own multiple ones but the court must approve that. You will be responsible for all costs related to the device including installation, leasing and maintenance.

If you would like to learn more about ignition interlock devices or other aspects of the state’s laws regarding OWI offenses and how you can protect your rights, please feel free to visit the drunk driving defense page of our Wisconsin criminal defense website.