Convicted of DUII in Oregon? Take a breath before driving

A state law that took effect at the beginning of this month requires anyone convicted of driving under the influence of intoxicants to have an ignition interlock device installed in their car. The length of time required primarily depends on the number of drunk-driving convictions on your record.

The device is similar to the breath test police give to motorists suspected of driving drunk. It attaches to a car's ignition, requiring the driver to blow into it before the car will operate. If the device detects a predetermined minimum blood alcohol level , the car won't start. The convicted driver must pay about $50 per month to lease each IID, and about $75 to have it installed. A device is required in every car that the convicted driver uses.

First-time DUII offenders are required to have an IID for one year from the time their license is reinstated. A second conviction results in a two-year IID requirement. Those with more than two offenses must keep an IID installed in their vehicle for five years after completion of the longest-running driver's license suspension caused by any of the convictions. The five-year IID requirement also applies to DUII convictions involving a death or first-degree assault.

There's some debate over whether the devices are effective. Some say that while IIDs do prevent those convicted of DUII from driving drunk, the recidivism rates climb once the devices are removed. Other critics point out that the devices aren't 100 percent accurate, which could lead to a car's failure to start even if the driver isn't impaired.

Regardless of where you stand on the issue, it's important to realize that failure to install an IID after you've been ordered to will result in more violations, which will mar your driving record further and increase your penalties. As frustrating as this limit is, it's one more step toward fully regaining your driving independence after a DUII conviction.

Source: KEZI, "New Law Requires In-Car Breathalyzer for All DUIs," Lauren Mickler, April 11, 2012