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Penalties for violating ignition interlock rules

Some drivers in Philadelphia have unfortunately received DUIs. These people have had various penalties imposed based on a number of factors. The biggest one, however, is how high their blood alcohol concentration or BAC was at the time of the incident. Additionally, there are other determining factors as well, such whether it was the person’s first DUI or whether they received DUIs in the past.

The penalties include but are not limited to potential jail time, fines, license suspension and even the requirement to only drive vehicles equipped with an ignition interlock system. These systems require the person to test their BAC prior to driving. If the BAC is too high, the car will not start.

A driver could face additional penalties if they are caught driving a vehicle without an ignition interlock device installed in it. For a first time offense, the person could face a fine of anywhere between $300 and $1000 and could even be sent to jail for up to 90 days. If the person has a BAC above .025 at the time they are caught, the penalties increase. The person would have to pay a $1000 fine and could go to jail for at least 90 days.

There are also penalties for tampering with an ignition interlock system, which includes having someone else provide the breath sample. A first time offense includes a fine of between $300 and $1000 and up to 90 days in jail.

There are many drivers in Philadelphia who are required to drive with an ignition interlock system in any vehicle that they drive. The penalties for violating the rules of ignition interlock can result in fines and even jail time. However, like any crime there may be available defenses to it. Additionally, it must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt that the person committed the crime. Therefore, defendants should take steps to understand the potential defenses options they having, allowing them to protect their rights and interests in the matter.

Source: Pennsylvania State Legislature, “Pennsylvania Statute Title 75 section 3808” accessed on June 6, 2016

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