What You Need To Know About the Illinois Breath Alcohol Ignition Interlock Device

 Posted on February 13,2014 in Criminal Law

There are some serious consequences for individuals convicted of driving under the influence in Illinois. The first step you should take if you are accused of driving under the influence is to reach out to a criminal attorney for case management. An experienced criminal lawyer will take your case seriously and you should, too. Don't let a DUI conviction dampen your future.

One of the most common questions that individuals charged with DUI tend to ask is whether they will be able to drive on a suspended license. This is only eligible for first-time DUI offenders and is known as driving relief. You initiate this process by submitting an application for a Monitoring Device Driving Permit to the Secretary of State. This same office is responsible for reviewing the data from the BAIID for the duration of the permit. If a driver were to attempt operating the vehicle under the influence of alcohol, the Secretary of State's office would be notified immediately.

A first time DUI conviction doesn't require that an individual drive with a BAIID, but the other alternative is to give up driving privileges for the length of the suspension period. If you decide to take the driving suspension but are caught behind the wheel, you could be charged with a Class 4 felony. The convenience of being able to drive is why many individuals opt to use the BAIID in their vehicle during the suspension period.

The driver is responsible for the installation, rental, and monitoring fees of their BAIID. He or she will have to use the breath test in order to start the car. Like other penalties for being convicted of driving under the influence, using a BAIID to drive can be irritating or even embarrassing. If you have been charged with a DUI, you need to call the office of an Illinois criminal attorney today so that your rights are represented.