When Should You Disconnect Your Ignition Interlock Device?

An ignition interlock device is a commitment to sober driving after a DUI conviction. It is also the easiest way to ensure your life runs as smooth as possible after such a disruptive event. Still, too many people try to get out of the requirement, circumvent or otherwise drive without the device’s protection. That’s a disconnect your ignition interlock device can certainly do without.

You should never disconnect your ignition interlock device without court approval.

The only reason you can or should ever disconnect your ignition interlock device is at the court’s request. Either you’ve served out the time required for your DUI conviction and ignition interlock requirement, or you’ve had too many violations and the device needs to be removed. Other than that, the device remains your responsibility, for the duration of your court order. That means it needs to stay exactly where it was installed so it can continue to do its job.

A few reasons to keep your ignition interlock connected, aside from more criminal consequences:

• Ignition interlock devices have prevented up to 15 percent of DUI fatalities.
• Interlocks reduce 67 percent of repeat DUI offenses when installed.
• One-third of DUI offenders are rearrested for drunk driving when interlocks are not ordered.

As for those criminal consequences, remember that any attempts to disconnect your ignition interlock device are violations of your court order. Just by violating your interlock agreement, you could be ordered to maintain the device for an even longer time or you could lose the privilege of the device. When you lose the device, your license is immediately suspended or revoked and you cannot drive. If you do, you just keep accruing more legal troubles.

There is no reason to disconnect your ignition interlock device unless you’re ready to face those tougher consequences or put lives at risk on the road.