Texas DUI Attorneys Discuss Interlock Device Calibration
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Texas DUI Attorneys Discuss Interlock Device Calibration
Hey y’all, my name’s John Smith – I’m a DUI defense attorney practicing here in Texas. Today I wanted to have a frank discussion about ignition interlock devices, commonly known as IIDs or breathalyzers. These little gadgets have become more and more common for folks dealing with a DUI charge, so it’s real important to understand how they work and some of the issues around proper calibration.
First off, what is an IID exactly? It’s a device that gets installed in your car as a condition of your probation or to get your driver’s license back after it’s been suspended due to a DUI. The device prevents your car from starting if it detects alcohol on your breath over a certain limit, usually around 0.02%. You’ll have to blow into it before starting your car, and sometimes while you’re driving too. The goal is to prevent drunk driving recidivism by keeping folks from driving after drinking.
How Accurate Are These Devices?
Well that’s the million dollar question! The calibration of these devices has been challenged in courts across Texas and the country. The science behind measuring blood alcohol content through breath is complicated business. Things like medical conditions, diet, burping or acid reflux, and even radio frequencies can impact the results. There’s also issues around the maintenance and calibration of the devices themselves.
The reality is the technology is far from perfect. The legal limit in Texas is 0.08% BAC, but the IID cutoff is usually around 0.02%. Even if you’re under the limit, environmental factors could trigger a false positive. And that false positive means the device goes into lockout mode and prevents you from driving – it’s a huge hassle.
Fighting Suspicious Results
If you get flagged by the IID for a questionable result, all is not lost! As your attorney, here are some of the strategies I’d use to fight it:
- Request documentation on the device’s maintenance and calibration – was it properly calibrated?
- Get data from the device on the circumstances of the failed test – was the result physically possible based on your alcohol consumption?
- Point out environmental factors that could have interfered – do you have medical conditions that impact results?
- Argue that the technology itself is unreliable – highlight cases of false positives
Drawing on expert testimony and scientific research, a skilled DUI attorney can often get these suspicious results thrown out. You may even be able to get the IID requirement lifted if you can show the device is unreliable. Don’t just accept a false positive – fight back!
The Importance of an Experienced Attorney
As you can see, these IID devices are far from foolproof. Having a seasoned DUI attorney in your corner is crucial for navigating the complexities and potential pitfalls. Don’t leave your fate up to a faulty technology – protect your rights!
If you or a loved one are facing an IID requirement, give me a call today. I’ve helped hundreds of folks in Texas fight back against inaccurate results and draconian punishments. With an individualized legal strategy, we can get the charges reduced or dismissed, and prevent the installation of an IID in your vehicle. Don’t go it alone against the powerful DUI enforcement system – let me protect your freedom and livelihood.
Well that’s all I have for y’all today. I know this DUI stuff can be real scary and confusing with all the technical gizmos they use nowadays. But stay strong – with perseverance and a good attorney, you can beat this. God bless and drive safe out there.
References
Here are some references I used for this article:
- TX Ignition Interlock Devices (IID) & DWI Laws – Texas – Intoxalock
- DWI Interlock Devices and Exceptions – Mimi Coffey
- Ignition Interlock Devices – DWI Defense – Tyler Flood
- Ignition Interlock Device in Texas FAQ | Smart Start®
- Ignition Interlock Device Defense Lawyer | Tarrant County, TX
- State of Texas Ignition Interlock Laws: A Policy Evaluation