If you use an ignition-interlock device after a Minnesota DWI, a failed test or device lockout can be concerning. But not every lockout means the same thing, and not every device problem leads to the same consequence.
For Lake Elmo drivers in Minnesota’s ignition-interlock program, the important questions are what caused the problem, whether it counts as a violation, and whether it affects your driving privileges. If you are dealing with Minnesota DWI or DUI requirements, understanding a few basic rules can help you make sense of what happened.
Why Does an Ignition Interlock Lock You Out?
An ignition-interlock device, or IID, tests your breath before allowing your vehicle to start. If the device detects an alcohol concentration of 0.02 or higher, it will prevent the vehicle from starting.
A lockout can also happen because of other device or program issues. The important point is that a lockout and a program violation are not always the same thing. Seeing a warning or being unable to start your vehicle does not, by itself, tell you what DVS will do next.
Possible program violations can include:
- Failing a required breath test.
- Missing a rolling retest while driving.
- Tampering with or trying to bypass the device.
- Driving a vehicle that does not have the required IID.
- Missing required device service.
A rolling retest is simply another breath test requested after you have started driving. These tests are part of the monitoring process and do not mean the device will shut off your vehicle while it is moving.
What Happens After a Violation?
There is no single penalty for every ignition-interlock violation. What happens depends on the type of violation and the rules that apply to your license.
Some violations can extend the amount of time you must participate in the program. Others can affect your driving privileges or create a separate legal issue. A positive reading of 0.02 or higher can also affect when some drivers become eligible to regain full driving privileges.
An extension can have a financial impact as well. More time in the program generally means more months of device service and monitoring. This is one reason it is important to understand whether a recorded event actually affects your required participation period rather than assuming that the original end date remains unchanged.
The IID records test results and other information about the device. If Driver and Vehicle Services, or DVS, takes action because of a recorded event, the notice you receive should help identify the issue and what happens next.
Will the Device Shut Off Your Car While You Are Driving?
No. The IID is not designed to shut off the engine while your vehicle is moving.
The device can request a rolling retest while you drive. If you miss or fail that test, the event can be recorded, but the device does not simply turn off a moving vehicle.
If the device displays a warning or requests service, follow the instructions provided by your approved ignition-interlock provider. Trying to disconnect, bypass, or alter the device can create a separate program problem.
Other Requirements Can Affect When You Finish
Some drivers have additional requirements before their full driving privileges can be restored. For example, certain participants may need to complete recommended alcohol or drug treatment.
Some drivers with more serious license histories also have additional breath-testing requirements. These rules do not apply to everyone, which is why it is important to know the specific requirements attached to your license.
Completing your required time with the IID does not necessarily mean you have completed every step needed to regain full driving privileges. A driver may still need to satisfy other DVS requirements, including applicable treatment requirements and reinstatement fees.
This distinction can be easy to miss. The amount of time you are required to use the device is only one part of the reinstatement process. Reinstatement means having your full driving privileges restored after you satisfy the requirements that apply to your license.
What Lake Elmo Drivers Can Do After a Lockout
If your IID locks you out or records a problem, start by documenting what happened. Keep any message displayed by the device and any notice you later receive from DVS.
It can also help to write down:
- When the event happened.
- What the device displayed.
- Whether you were starting the vehicle or already driving.
- Whether you completed any requested retest.
- Whether you were asked to have the device serviced.
- Any deadline listed in a DVS notice.
Keeping this information can make it easier to understand the event later, particularly if you receive a notice about your participation period or driving privileges.
Do not assume that a lockout automatically means your program will be extended. The specific event and the rules that apply to your license determine what happens next. Likewise, do not assume that a device problem can simply be ignored because the vehicle eventually starts again.
Coodin Law Office, LLC is a Lake Elmo law office serving people in Woodbury, Washington County, and surrounding Minnesota communities. An attorney or lawyer can review a DVS notice and explain whether a lockout or violation may affect your ignition-interlock requirements. If you have questions about your situation, contact our law office.