Ignition Interlock System in Detail: Installation & Working Explained
Key Highlights:
- The Indian government is yet to actively promote the implementation of ignition interlock systems.
- The device works primarily by checking the Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) of the driver.
- It is highly effective in school buses, national permit trucks and taxi fleets.
Ignition Interlock System - The Basics
An ignition interlock system is a device similar to a breathalyser that is fitted into a vehicle’s ignition system. Before starting the engine, the driver must blow into a mouthpiece connected to the device. If the breath sample shows an alcohol level higher than a set limit, typically around 0.02 per cent Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC), the engine will remain disabled and will not start.
It is electronically linked to the ignition switch and is typically positioned beneath the vehicle's dashboard. The interlock device verifies that the individual trying to start the car is sober at the moment of ignition.
How Does it Work?
An ignition interlock device may seem very basic in concept, but it is quite effective in practice. Here is how it functions:
- Initial breath test: Before starting the vehicle, the driver is required to blow into the device. The engine will start only if the BAC is below the specified limit.
- Rolling retests: While driving, the device might ask for extra breath samples at unexpected times. This helps confirm that the person who started the vehicle is the one still driving and not someone who is intoxicated.
- Data logging: Each test result, whether it is a pass or a fail, is recorded with the corresponding time and date. This information can be accessed by authorised personnel or monitoring agencies.
- Tamper prevention: Modern systems come with anti-tampering features. When tampering is detected, the device can trigger an alarm or prevent the vehicle from operating.
When is it Needed?
Ignition interlock systems are usually required by the court or licensing authority (greatly depends on the country) in cases involving incidents of drunk driving. Common circumstances include:
- First-time Driving Under the Influence (DUI) offenders: In certain countries, even first-time offenders may be required to install it as a preventive measure.
- Repeat DUI offenders: Individuals with multiple drunk-driving convictions are often mandated to install the device.
- High BAC levels: If the offender showed a very high BAC (0.15 or 0.20 per cent) at the time of arrest, the device may be mandatory even for a first offence.
- Refusal to take a breath test: Some jurisdictions require interlock devices if a driver refuses a police-ordered breath test.
- After licence reinstatement, Ignition interlock systems are often a condition for getting back a suspended or revoked licence.
Expected outcomes
- Prevents repeat offences: Multiple studies and corporations have released data proving a drastic drop in repeat drunk-and-driving offences after installing the device.
- Promote behavioural change: Extended use of the device encourages the driver to step away from alcohol consumption.
- Reduce alcohol-related crashes: By ensuring that only sober individuals can drive, the system directly lowers the number of crashes caused by drunk driving.
- Aid rehabilitation: Ignition interlock systems are often recognised as part of rehabilitation and probation programmes for DUI offenders.
- Enable conditional driving: Instead of a full driving ban, offenders can continue to drive under strict monitoring.
Installation Process
When a court mandates the use of an ignition interlock system, the offender is required to get the device installed by an authorised service provider. The process generally includes:
- Selection of provider: The offender chooses a certified ignition interlock system provider approved by the appropriate authority.
- Vehicle inspection: The service provider examines the vehicle and fits the device - a process that typically takes a few hours.
- Calibration and training: The device is set to match the legal BAC limit. The driver receives proper training on how to use it correctly.
- Monitoring and reporting: The device undergoes regular servicing, and data is submitted to the authorities as needed.
Costs Involved
The offender usually bears the cost of installation and maintenance. The expenses related to the ignition interlock system may vary based on the country and the device variant. Low-income offenders may be eligible for financial assistance or reduced fees in certain countries. Albeit implemented on a narrower scale in India, costs generally fall in this range:
- Installation fee: ₹5,000 - ₹10,000, depending solely on the service provider.
- Monthly monitoring fees: Most service providers charge a fee for data reporting and maintenance, typically around ₹1,500 - ₹2,500 per month.
- Removal fee: Once the mandated period ends, a separate fee is charged for removing the device.
Benefits and Limitations
Although the ignition interlock system was introduced for a good cause, it may pose challenges if not properly monitored during and after its implementation. Let us recap some of the benefits and then move on to the limitations:
Benefits
- Reduces drunk driving incidents
- Promotes responsible behaviour
- Enables conditional mobility
- Helps authorities monitor high-risk drivers
- Improves public safety
Limitations
- Cost burden on the driver
- Technical malfunctions may cause inconvenience
- Privacy concerns due to data logging
- Can be bypassed by making another person blow into the device, unless supervised
Device Innovations
Many service providers are implementing new capabilities into their ignition interlock systems. Though it may increase the initial price burden on offenders, the results are significantly more effective. Here is a quick look at some innovations:
- Camera-equipped devices: Ensure that the correct driver is taking the test.
- Real-time reporting: Results are sent instantly to authorities or family members.
- Integrated GPS and telematics: Monitors driving patterns and ensures law compliance.
- Wireless calibration and updates: Reduce the need for frequent maintenance.
How Ignition Interlock Systems Can Help in India
In addition to being used in DUI cases, ignition interlock systems are also being considered for vehicles that transport children or operate within the public transport sector. In certain countries, school buses are mandated to have them installed to confirm that drivers are sober before beginning their trip.
Commercial transport vehicles, particularly those that handle hazardous or inflammable loads or are involved in long-distance travel, could also be equipped with interlock devices to enhance safety. Certain manufacturers and corporations are also considering the integration of ignition interlock systems into their taxi fleet.
FAQs
1. Can someone else start the car for the offender?
The system may include random retests while driving and logs all test results, making tampering or misuse easy to detect.
2. How long must the device remain in the car?
The duration varies with a country's legislation. It could range from a few months to over a year, depending on legal requirements.
3. Does the device record any data?
Yes, it stores information such as breath test results, skipped tests, tampering attempts and engine start times, which are regularly reported to authorities.
4. Can an ignition interlock system detect substances other than alcohol?
No, it is designed specifically to detect alcohol. It cannot detect drugs or other intoxicating substances.
5. What happens if someone fails a breath test?
The engine will not start, and the incident will be logged. Multiple failures may lead to extended penalties or legal consequences.