Where to Get an Ignition Interlock Device Installed

Drunk driving accidents still remain a huge problem in the United States. In 2016, nearly 10,500 people died in crashes involving alcohol impairment, which accounted for about 28 percent of all traffic deaths in the country.

In response, many states have begun to impose stricter laws and regulations in an attempt to reduce injuries, deaths, and crashes resulting from alcohol-impaired driving. This includes enforcement of existing 0.08 percent BAC limits and laws discouraging and punishing the use of alcohol by those under the legal drinking age.

However, one of the most effective tools in the fight against drunk driving is the ignition interlock device. While initially reserved for special cases, the ignition interlock device has now become much more common. Currently, every state has a law of some sort that requires the installation of an ignition interlock device.

If you have been ordered to install an ignition interlock device, you may be wondering where to get an ignition interlock device installed and finding a vendor may seem difficult or confusing. Here are some tips to help you find the right place to get your ignition interlock device installed.

Court-Approved Vendors

The main thing to understand about interlock device installation is that you can only have one installed and serviced by a court-approved vendor or provider. That means that you can’t get your IID from your local mechanic or auto shop.

Most ignition interlock device providers will state upfront if they are court-approved, but if you are not sure where to start, the court will usually provide a list of approved vendors in your area.

Reputation and Experience

A good place to start is to look at the provider’s general reputation. Consider how long they have been in business. While more years isn’t necessarily better, it does mean experience and indicates that the company has followed the necessary rules and requirements. The staff may also be more knowledgeable and can help you collect the necessary paperwork and guide you through the process.

Along with experience, make sure the vendor follows all state requirements for ignition interlock devices and stays up to date with federal standards, which often and frequently change.

You may also want to avoid vendors who have suffered a suspension in the past. This usually indicates that the device is unreliable or does not meet court requirements.

Location

One of the requirements of owning an ignition interlock device is monthly calibrations and maintenance. If you need to visit your vendor at least once a month, it’s best to find a provider with multiple locations in your area, ensuring that you’re not wasting too much on gas.

For a complete list of Low Cost Interlock locations, click here.

The Quality of the Ignition Interlock Device

You can find a wide range of ignition interlock devices on the market, and many providers will use their own proprietary technology. You ultimately want a device that is reliable, accurate, efficient, and easy to use. Long warm-up times, false readings, and the need for strange blowing patterns can just add more hurdles to an already burdensome process, keeping you from getting on the road when you’re in a rush.

Customer Support and Capabilities

While you should absolutely look for a reliable and efficient device, even the best interlock device can run into the occasional hiccup, often at the most inopportune time. If and when that happens, you want to have access to customer service. A good ignition interlock device company should have its own customer service division that is available 24/7, during weekends and holidays, and can provide assistance with any testing issues and other potential problems that crop up.

You also want to make sure that the provider can actually install an ignition interlock device in your vehicle. Interlock devices for motorcycles, in particular, may be an issue, but even certain cars can be difficult for some vendors who may not have the right tools or experience. Automobile advancements mean more push-start cars and eco or hybrid cars with start-and-stop engines.

Pricing

Because ignition interlock devices are provided through third-party vendors, there are no standard set prices. Along with the installation fee, make sure you ask about other initial costs, like the first month’s lease. Consider what is included in calibration fees and the cost for eventual removal.

Some vendors will provide long-term contracts. While these contracts can be convenient upfront, you may end up opting out of them early, which can get difficult and may come with early cancellation fees.

Getting your IID installed from the right vendor can take a huge load off your shoulders. Spend some time to do some research to determine where you should get your ignition interlock device installed.

Why Low Cost Interlock

Here at Low Cost Interlock, we offer the cheapest, fastest, and most reliable ignition interlock device for your vehicle. Our high-quality device is easy to use, court-approved and will allow you to get back on the road in no time.

Sources:

– https://www.cdc.gov/motorvehiclesafety/impaired_driving/impaired-drv_factsheet.html