Being charged with driving under the influence in Seattle is a serious matter. Fines and jail time aren't the only penalties that you face after a DUI charge--your driving privileges can be suspended altogether. If you are facing a suspension of your driver's license after a DUI arrest, there is hope—you may qualify for the installation of an ignition interlock device in order to resume driving. 

Being able to drive is essential for most Seattle residents, whether for purposes of work, school, or taking care of family. When your ability to drive is at stake, it's critical to speak with a seasoned DUI defense attorney as soon as possible after your charge. If you are facing a suspension of your driving privileges, the legal team at Karimi Law is here to help. 

Ignition Interlocks in Seattle Following a DUI Conviction

If you have been convicted of driving under the influence in Seattle and have had your license suspended, you may be eligible to regain your driving privileges through the use of an ignition interlock device (IID). This is a device that is installed in the vehicle of a person with a DUI. The IID requires a driver to provide a breath sample before the vehicle's engine can start. If the ignition interlock device detects a breath alcohol content of 0.025 or more, the car will not start. 

Eligibility for an Ignition Interlock Device to Regain Driving Privileges

 Depending on the individual circumstances surrounding the DUI conviction, a driver who has been convicted of driving under the influence may be eligible to resume driving with the installation of the ignition interlock device. The time in which a person must keep an IID installed in his or her vehicle depends on how many times a person has been convicted of DUI: 

• First DUI offense: at least one year
• Second DUI offense: at least five years
• Third or more DUI offense: at least ten years

Removing an Ignition Interlock Device 

After a person has obtained an ignition interlock device in his or her vehicle, he or she must wait until the suspension period has passed in order to apply for a reinstatement of the person's driver's license. Once a person has applied for reinstatement, the ignition interlock device will be tested. A reinstatement of driving privileges will not be granted if, in the four months preceding the application for reinstatement, the driver has: 

• Attempted to start the car with a BAC of 0.04 or more; 
• Failed an ignition interlock device retest
• Neglected to keep up with the maintenance and calibration of the IID.

Facing a DUI Charge in Seattle? We Can Help

If you are facing a charge of driving under the influence in Seattle, the best choice that you can make is to retain legal representation from an experienced DUI defense attorney as soon as possible. Steve Karimi is committed to helping those who have been arrested for driving under the influence fight their charge. To speak with a member of our legal team, fill out an online case evaluation form or call (206) 621-8777 today.