What is the purpose of Ignition Interlock Devices (IIDs), and how do they work in Maryland?
Ignition Interlock Devices (IIDs) are breath-testing devices that are installed in a vehicle and measure the driver’s alcohol concentration. In Maryland, IIDs are required for drivers convicted of a DUI or DWI offense, or for those drivers who have refused to take a chemical breath test. The purpose of IIDs is to discourage drunk driving and to ensure that those who have been convicted of, or refused to take a chemical breath test for, a DUI or DWI offense are not driving under the influence of alcohol. When the driver blows into the device, it measures the amount of alcohol in the breath. If the breath alcohol concentration is above a pre-set level, the vehicle will not start. The device must remain in the vehicle for a set period of time before it can be removed.Are IIDs mandatory for DUI or DWI offenders in Maryland?
Yes, Maryland requires all drivers convicted of DUI or DWI to install an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) in their vehicle.Is there a minimum BAC level or specific circumstances that trigger IID installation in Maryland?
Yes. In Maryland, the legal limit is .08 BAC and higher for drivers 21+. Any driver under 21 with a BAC of .02 or higher will also be required to have an ignition interlock device installed. Other circumstances that may require an ignition interlock device to be installed include:-Being convicted of a DUI-related offense
-Being convicted of driving while impaired by drugs or alcohol
-Being convicted of a vehicular homicide, manslaughter or other serious traffic violations
-Being convicted of a second or subsequent DUI/DWI offense.
Are there different rules for first-time DUI offenders compared to repeat offenders in Maryland?
Yes, there are different rules for first-time DUI offenders compared to repeat offenders in Maryland. First-time DUI offenders in Maryland may receive probation before judgment (PBJ), which allows the offense to be expunged from their criminal record after a period of probation. A repeat offender, on the other hand, will likely face harsher penalties, including jail time and longer license suspensions. Additionally, they may be required to attend an alcohol treatment program and have an ignition interlock device installed in their vehicle.How long is an IID typically required to be installed in a vehicle in Maryland?
In Maryland, a driver must have an IID installed for 45 days for a first offense and up to 1 year for a second offense.Are there fees associated with the installation, maintenance, and removal of IIDs in Maryland?
Yes, in Maryland there are fees associated with the installation, maintenance, and removal of IIDs. The fees can vary based on the provider used for the installation and any additional services needed. Generally, the fees include a one-time installation fee, a monthly monitoring fee, and a removal fee.Do IIDs have any impact on insurance premiums for the vehicle owner in Maryland?
No, the insurance premiums for a vehicle owner in Maryland are not impacted by the vehicle’s IID (Ignition Interlock Device). Insurance companies in Maryland are not allowed to consider IIDs when setting premiums for drivers.What happens if a driver fails an IID breath test while attempting to start the vehicle in Maryland?
If a driver fails an IID breath test in Maryland while attempting to start their vehicle, their vehicle will not start and they will not be able to drive it. Additionally, the driver may face consequences such as fines, license suspension or revocation, and potentially jail time depending on the circumstances.Is there a requirement for periodic rolling retests while driving with an IID in Maryland?
Yes. In Maryland, drivers with an IID must complete a rolling retest every time they start their vehicle. This includes at least two rolling retests each month, and it must be completed within the first five minutes of driving.Can someone other than the offender drive the vehicle with an IID installed in Maryland?
Yes, other people can drive a vehicle with an IID installed in Maryland as long as they have the appropriate license and the IID is properly calibrated.Are there penalties for attempting to tamper with or circumvent the IID in Maryland?
Yes. According to Maryland law, any attempt to tamper with or circumvent an IID can result in criminal penalties including fines and/or jail time. Additionally, a person who tampers with or circumvents an IID may also be subject to up to 12 points on their driver’s license and a 6-month suspension.How does our state monitor and enforce compliance with IID requirements in Maryland?
The Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) enforces IID requirements in Maryland. The MVA works with local authorities and the courts to ensure that ignition interlock devices are installed, used, and maintained according to state law. The MVA also administers the Ignition Interlock Program (IIP), which tracks all court-ordered IID installations, program participation, and program violations. Additionally, the MVA has established a 24-hour hotline for anyone who wishes to report a suspected violation of IID requirements.Is there a process for appealing or contesting the IID requirement in Maryland?
Yes, some people may be able to contest the requirement for an IID in Maryland. Drivers can submit an Application for Reinstatement of Maryland Driver’s License and Ignition Interlock Permit (Form DR-106). The form must be signed and notarized and sent to the Motor Vehicle Administration along with a $45 fee. The MVA will review the application and decide if the IID requirement should be waived or modified. If the MVA denies the appeal, drivers can file an appeal with the Administrative Appeals Division, which will then review the decision.Can individuals request a hardship or restricted license during IID installation in Maryland?
No, individuals in Maryland are not able to request a hardship or restricted license during the ignition interlock device installation process. However, they may be able to apply for a modified license after the device has been installed. This modified license may allow them to drive for specific purposes, such as to and from work or school, or to attend medical appointments. Individuals should contact the Motor Vehicle Administration directly for more information about obtaining this type of license.What happens if someone accumulates violations or fails to comply with IID requirements in Maryland?
If someone accumulates violations or fails to comply with IID requirements in Maryland, they may face fines, license suspension, and/or jail time. In addition, they may also be required to take an alcohol education or treatment course or an IID refresher course.Are there provisions for indigent individuals who cannot afford IID costs in Maryland?
Yes, there are provisions for indigent individuals in Maryland who cannot afford the costs associated with an ignition interlock device (IID). The Maryland Department of Transportation’s Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) offers an Indigency Program that can waive the IID installation fees and any associated costs. The program is available to Maryland residents who meet certain financial criteria. Individuals must submit a completed application for the Indigency Program, which includes proof of income, to the MVA’s Ignition Interlock Program.How do IIDs impact commercial driver’s licenses (CDLs) and CDL holders in Maryland?
In Maryland, any driver who has been convicted of a DUI must install an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) on their vehicle before they can regain their commercial driver’s license (CDL). The IID requires the driver to submit a breath sample into a device that will measure the concentration of alcohol in their system before the vehicle will start. If the device detects any alcohol, the vehicle will not start. The IID must be installed in all vehicles owned and operated by the CDL holder in order for the driver to regain their CDL. Additionally, IIDs must be monitored regularly and it is the driver’s responsibility to ensure that all of the IID’s requirements are met.Do IIDs differ in requirements for passenger vehicles versus motorcycles or other vehicles in Maryland?
Yes, IIDs have different requirements for passenger vehicles and motorcycles or other vehicles in Maryland. For passenger vehicles, drivers with an alcohol-related driving violation on their record must install and maintain an IID on their car for a period of up to three years. For motorcycles and other vehicles, the IID requirement is only imposed if the driver has two or more alcohol-related driving violations on their record.Are there resources or organizations that offer support and guidance for IID users in Maryland?
Yes, there are several resources and organizations that offer support and guidance for IID users in Maryland. The Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) administers the Ignition Interlock Program in Maryland and provides information on the program. The Maryland Department of Transportation’s (MDOT) Ignition Interlock Program website also provides information on the program, as well as answers to frequently asked questions.The Maryland Department of Health (MDH) provides links to Substance Abuse Treatment Programs that offer counseling and support services related to the use of IIDs. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) also provides a list of treatment facilities in Maryland that provide services related to the use of IIDs.
The Maryland Alcohol Safety Action Program (MASAP) offers ignition interlock services and provides resources and advice to those who are using or considering using an IID. MASAP also offers other services, such as alcohol education classes, for those in need.
The American Council on Alcoholism (ACA) offers a list of certified ignition interlock providers in Maryland, as well as resources for those looking for treatment programs or other support.
Finally, the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (NCADD) Maryland Chapter provides educational materials on IID usage and a list of local treatment centers.
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