You get in your car, provide a breath sample, and your ignition-interlock device will not let you start the vehicle. What happens next?
A lockout can happen for several reasons, and it does not automatically mean you were driving impaired or that you will lose your driving privileges. The reason for the lockout matters. For Minnesota drivers using an ignition-interlock device, or IID, understanding what the device recorded can help you determine what to do next.
If you are participating in the program because of a Minnesota DWI or DUI, it is also important to know that a device lockout and a program violation are not always the same thing.
What Can Trigger an Ignition Interlock Lockout?
An IID is a breath-testing device installed in your vehicle. Before the vehicle starts, you provide a breath sample. If the device detects an alcohol concentration of 0.02 or higher, it will prevent the vehicle from starting.
Alcohol readings are not the only reason you may have a problem with the device. Depending on the circumstances, issues can also involve:
- A missed or failed breath test.
- A missed rolling retest after you start driving.
- Repeated unsuccessful attempts to provide a valid sample.
- Missing required device service.
- Tampering with or trying to bypass the IID.
A rolling retest is simply another breath sample requested after the vehicle has been started. The IID does not shut off a moving vehicle if there is a problem with a rolling retest. Instead, the event can be recorded by the device.
Does Every Lockout Count as a Violation?
No. A lockout tells you that the device prevented a start or required attention. It does not tell you by itself what the legal consequence will be.
This distinction matters because the IID records information about breath tests, missed tests, service events, and other activity. Driver and Vehicle Services, or DVS, can use information reported through the program when determining whether a participant followed the applicable rules.
For example, a positive reading may have different consequences from a missed service appointment or an attempt to bypass the device. The requirements can also differ based on why you are in the ignition-interlock program and the status of your driver’s license.
That is why you should not assume that one lockout automatically adds a certain amount of time to the program.
What Can Happen After an IID Violation?
The consequence depends on the violation. Some problems can affect how long you must participate in ignition interlock or when you become eligible for full driving privileges.
Other conduct can create more serious issues. For example, tampering with the IID or driving a vehicle when your license requires you to use a properly equipped vehicle can lead to additional consequences under Minnesota law.
A violation may also cost you more even when the primary consequence is additional time in the program. More time with an IID can mean additional service and monitoring expenses.
Most importantly, do not treat every IID event as interchangeable. A failed startup test, missed rolling retest, service problem, and attempt to bypass the device involve different facts. What DVS does next depends on the event and the requirements that apply to you.
What Should You Do After a Lockout in Lake Elmo?
If your IID locks you out, start by keeping a record of what happened. You do not need to diagnose the legal issue yourself, but having accurate information can help if questions come up later.
Write down:
- The date and time of the lockout.
- What the device displayed.
- Whether you were trying to start the vehicle or completing a rolling retest.
- Whether the device directed you to contact your provider or schedule service.
- Any notice you later receive from DVS.
If the device requires service, follow the instructions from your approved ignition-interlock provider. Do not try to disconnect, alter, or work around the device yourself.
If you receive a notice from DVS, read it carefully and pay attention to any deadline. The notice may explain whether the recorded event affects your driving privileges or ignition-interlock participation.
A Lockout Does Not Tell the Whole Story
For Lake Elmo drivers, the key is to separate the device event from the legal consequence. Being unable to start your vehicle does not automatically mean your license will be revoked or your IID period will be extended. At the same time, a recorded violation should not be ignored simply because the vehicle later starts normally.
An attorney can review a DVS notice and help determine what the event means under the requirements that apply to your license. A lawyer can also explain whether the issue affects only your ignition-interlock participation or creates a separate legal concern.
Coodin Law Office, LLC is a Lake Elmo law office serving people in Woodbury, Washington County, and surrounding Minnesota communities. If you have questions about an ignition-interlock lockout or a notice from DVS, contact our law office to discuss your situation.