Driving while intoxicated is one of the leading causes of car collisions throughout the country. In 2015, the Texas Department of Transportation reported a total of 17,520 alcohol-related crashes and injuries. With this drunk driving problem, Texas legislatures have attempted to reduce the likelihood of fatalities and injuries due to drunk drivers on Texas roadways.
One way that legislatures have attempted to reduce these incidents is through the implementation of a 2015 law requiring individuals with DWI convictions to have ignition installation devices installed in their vehicles in order to regain some driving privileges.
While this is an option following some DWI convictions, not all individuals convicted of DWI offenses are eligible for this program. If you were convicted of a DWI offense and seek to restore your driving privileges, retaining a defense attorney can help you start the process.
Attorney for Ignition Interlock Devices in Plano, Allen, Frisco, and McKinney, TX
Being convicted of a DWI offense in Plano, Texas can be extremely damaging to an individual’s record and livelihood. Many individuals require reliable transportation to get to and from work every day, which becomes increasingly difficult if their driving privileges are revoked.
If you were charged with a DWI offense in Collin County, Grayson County, Fannin County, Rockwall County, or Denton County and require reliable transportation to fulfill your work duties, you may be eligible to regain some of your driving privileges.
Call the Law Offices of Richard C. McConathy at (469) 304-3422 today to learn more about ignition interlock devices and whether partial driving privileges may be restored. With our main offices in Plano and Allen, Texas, the Law Offices of Richard C. McConathy also accepts clients in Frisco, McKinney, Richardson, and Carrollton.
Ignition Interlock Device Defined under Texas Code
In order to ensure that a driver convicted of a previous DWI with restored driving privileges is not abusing these privileges, Texas Transportation Code Section 521.241 states that qualifying drivers must possess an ignition interlock device.
Pursuant to section 521.241, an ignition interlock device is defined as a tool that uses breath analysis to detect the presence or absence of ethyl alcohol in a driver’s system to operate a motor vehicle. A driver will only be able to operate the vehicle if the ignition interlock device detects no alcohol.
In addition to the initial breath test, a driver will be required to randomly repeat the breath test while the vehicle is being operated. This is referred to as a “rolling test.”
In the event that a driver fails the rolling test, his or her vehicle will be disabled for a specific time, or in the event of repeat failures, the vehicle will be out of commission. A driver may lose his or her right to operate a vehicle or may be found in violation of probation for failing these breath tests.
When is an Ignition Interlock Device Required
Ignition interlock devices are required for individuals convicted of the following offenses:
- Repeat DWI offenses
- Intoxication Manslaughter
- Flying While Intoxicated
- DWI with Child Passenger
- Operating or Assembling Amusement Ride While Intoxicated
- Intoxication Assault
Essential needs driver’s licenses are available for individuals arrested under Chapter 49 of the Texas Penal Code. Before a driver’s court date, and after a restricted license denial, a driver can request an essential needs license to combat their administrative license suspension.
The driver must show a compelling reason for the essential license and must install the ignition interlock device.
An occupational driver’s license is available to drivers convicted of a DWI with a suspended license. To receive the occupation license, a driver must give proof of financial responsibility, and show that the ignition interlock device was installed on his or her automobile.
Ignition Interlock Devices Resources
Tips for Ignition Interlock Device Users-Visit the DPS website of the Texas Department of Public Safety to find out more about ignition interlock devices and driver’s license cancellation. This website also lists the necessary fees for this device. Also, find information on your drive eligibility status and locations to have an IID installed.
Texas House Bill 2246 History– Visit the Texas Legislature website of the Texas House of Representatives to find out more about Texas House Bill 2246 which governs IID requirements. This website lists a history of Texas Bills which relate to drunk driving laws. Also, find more information on the legislative history of Bill 2246.
Collin County Substance Abuse Program– Visit the Collin County website of the Collin County Government site for more information on substance abuse programs in Plano, Texas. This website provides links to treatment facilities in the area. Also, find out how to qualify for low cost or free substance abuse evaluations.
Find a Lawyer for Ignition Interlock Devices in Collin County, TX
Driving while intoxicated can be a one-time mistake that costs you for a long period. Losing your license can be an extremely stressful situation; however, the attorneys at the Law Offices of Richard C. McConathy are here to help. Our criminal defense attorneys are prepared to try and restore your driving privileges and get your life back to normal.
If you were arrested for DWI in Collin County, Texas, you may be able to drive sooner than expected. Call Law Offices of Richard C. McConathy at (469) 304-3422 for a free consultation. This firm accepts clients in Plano, and surrounding areas of Allen, Carrollton, Garland, Frisco, and Dallas.
We also serve clients in neighboring counties including Rockwall County, Grayson County, Fannin County, and Denton County.