Driving under the influence is a serious offense, and can place not only the driver’s life at risk, but also the lives of other drivers around them. In fact, an estimated 28 people die each day in the U.S. as a result of drunk driving and about $59 billion is spent each year on drunk driving incidents. Despite this, drunk driving still happens at an alarming rate, and often times accidents involve repeat offenders. It’s not uncommon that drunk drivers involved in fatal crashes who had a BAC of 0.08% or higher were six times more likely to have a previous DWI on record.
To help put a stop to repeat offenders driving under the influence, ignition interlock systems are now being installed in the cars belonging to drivers with multiple DUI convictions. But what are interlock systems? It’s simple. The ignition interlock device is a revolutionary new tool that can prohibit the vehicle engine from starting if the device that senses alcohol registers above a pre-set level. They’re a great tool, and have already been linked to a 70% reduction in arrests related to impaired driving. Because they’re already showing such a big success rate, there are already more than 150,000 interlock systems installed nationwide!
For those who want to keep their interlock system a little more private, there’s even the interlock cup with a discreet breathalyzer built in. The interlock cup disguises the interlock system as a beverage cup, making it look like you’re taking a drink of water instead of blowing into the car breathalyzer. It’s a handy tool that fits in most cup holders, and it even helps protect the interlock system from potential damages.
Because so many deaths happen annually due to drunk driving, it’s great that there are tools out there designed to help those with a history of DUI’s be safer before getting out there on the road. The Interlock system not only protects the potentially impaired driver, but it also looks out for other drivers on the road because it won’t let the vehicle start if the BAC of the driver is too high. Any tool that helps save lives is a winner!