Understanding the Role BAIID Devices Play in Illinois DUI Cases

 Posted on August 15, 2019 in Uncategorized

For most people charged with a DUI in Illinois, their driving privileges are automatically revoked. The Illinois Secretary of State’s Office will automatically suspend the driver’s license of anyone who fails a chemical test to determine his or her blood alcohol content (BAC) or who refuses to submit to a chemical test. Losing your driving privileges can put a strain on you and your family, which is why the state gives you a few options to regain your driving privileges if they have been suspended for reasons relating to a DUI. Any option you choose for driving relief will require the use of a breath alcohol ignition interlock device (BAIID), which is why it is important that you understand what they are and how they work.

What is a BAIID?

A breath alcohol ignition interlock device, or BAIID, is a small, cell phone-sized device that requires you to provide a breath sample before you are able to start your vehicle’s engine. The BAIID is hardwired into the ignition system of the vehicle and will not allow the vehicle to start unless the breath sample provided is registered as .025 or less. If your breath sample registers at anything over .025, your vehicle will not start, but your breath sample will be recorded and saved in the device.

During your trip, you will also likely be prompted to provide more breath samples at random intervals. This is to ensure that someone else did not provide the breath sample for you when you started the car and also to ensure that you are staying sober for the entire trip. Every 60 days, the Secretary of State’s office will download the information that has been recorded by the device. If the Office detects that there were violations, they will request an explanation for those violations. If your explanation is not sufficient or you do not respond to their request, you could face further sanctions and penalties.

Will I Have to Use a BAIID?

If your driver’s license was suspended or revoked for DUI, you will have to have a BAIID installed into any vehicle you intend to drive during your suspension or revocation period. You can opt not to have a driving permit or BAIID and instead refrain from driving during your suspension or revocation period, but you will face Class 4 felony charges if you are caught driving during this time.

Our Skilled Joliet, IL DUI Defense Lawyers are Here to Help

If you have failed a chemical test or refused to take a chemical test, you will have had your driving privileges take away from you. While this can be an inconvenience, you have the ability to choose an option for driving relief, but you will have to install and use a BAIID. Administrative penalties issued by the Secretary of State are separate from any criminal penalties you may be facing, so it is important that you act quickly by contacting a knowledgeable Will County DUI defense lawyer. At the Law Offices of Jack L. Zaremba, P.C., we will fight to protect your rights at every turn. Call our office today at 815-740-4025 to schedule a free consultation.