Proposed California Ignition Interlock Device Law Would Prevent DUI

Los Angeles, CA, January 11, 2009 --(PR.com)-- A proposed California law that would require the use of an ignition interlock device by convicted DUI drivers would prevent drunk driving and make the state’s roads safer for everyone.

The bill, known as “Matt’s Law” in honor of the son of Mary Klotzbach, who was killed by a drunk driver, was introduced at a Sacramento press conference by its sponsor, Assemblyman Mike Feuer. Smart Start of California, the state’s leading provider of ignition interlock devices, was there to demonstrate the equipment.

An ignition interlock device is equipment installed into a vehicle that prevents the car from starting if the driver is unable to provide a breath sample within a preset limit – often any alcohol at all. The driver must also perform periodic “rolling retests” throughout the trip.

Ignition interlock devices effectively separate drinking from driving. IIDs are safe, effective, and protect all of us without any cost to the taxpayer – the cost of installing and maintaining the device is paid by the DUI offender.

Laws went into effect on January 1 in six states that require DUI drivers to use ignition interlock devices. First-time DUI drivers in Alaska, Colorado, Illinois, Nebraska and Washington state must use ignition interlock devices if they want to continue driving. Repeat DUI drivers in South Carolina will be required to use the devices.

In 2005, New Mexico became the first state in the nation to require mandatory ignition interlock device use by first-time drunk drivers. Currently, at least 45 U.S. states have some kind of provision to require convicted drunk drivers use ignition interlock devices.

Smart Start is the nation’s leading provider of ignition interlock devices, and Smart Start of California has offices located throughout the state for your convenience. For more information about ignition interlock devices, please contact Angie Rupert at 1.800.774.0646.

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