Ignition Interlock Devices

John M. Kenney is a Bucks County DUI lawyer who serves individuals who have been charged with driving under the influence in the Levittown area and other Pennsylvania communities. A DUI is a serious charge that often comes with significant penalties, which may include heavy fines, the loss of driving privileges, and even jail time in some cases. As a result, you should not delay in seeking the guidance of an accomplished attorney. Mr. Kenney has been fighting for the rights of defendants since 1983.

An ignition interlock device (IID) is a contraption that forces a driver to take a breath test before being able to operate a vehicle. As its name suggests, the device is attached to a car’s ignition, and it will not allow the engine to start if the driver registers more than a predetermined blood alcohol content (.025 percent) in the breath test. The device also prompts the driver to complete other breath tests throughout the course of a trip. The engine will not shut down immediately during these “rolling tests.” Instead, the device alerts the driver to a failed test and slowly turns the engine off until the driver passes another test.

Pennsylvania law generally requires a person convicted of two or more DUIs to obtain an IID in order to continue driving. The IID must be installed on every vehicle that the person owns, operates, or leases for one year for each offense. That one year does not start, however, until after the driver serves a one-year license suspension. The devices can be leased for roughly $1,000 and also require drivers to pay various fees. Additionally, a driver who wants to obtain an IID needs to get a special ignition interlock license and complete various certifications confirming that he or she has obtained an IID for all covered vehicles. A person with an IID who gets behind the wheel of a car that is not equipped with the device faces possible fines and imprisonment, as well as the extension of the IID period.

Mr. Kenney takes a proactive approach to DUI cases, personally investigating the circumstances of each person’s situation and fighting from the beginning to get the charges dropped or reduced. He is well-respected in the legal community for his “straight talk” style of interacting with clients and for taking the time to keep the people whom he represents fully aware of their rights and responsibilities at each step of the way. This may include asking for Accelerated Rehabilitation Disposition (ARD)—an alternative program for drivers who have no prior criminal or DUI convictions—in eligible cases.

If you or a loved one is facing a drunk driving charge, contact Bucks County DUI attorney John M. Kenney at (215) 547-3031 or through our online form to arrange a free consultation. He can represent individuals in Levittown, Morrisville, Fairless Hills, Bristol, Yardley, and Langhorne, as well as other Pennsylvania communities. Mr. Kenney is also available to people who need a criminal defense attorney to fight other types of charges.