The Barnes Firm

Evidence: Interlocks Save Lives

• May 22, 2017
• Sandy

OAKLAND, Calif. – There’s a renewed push in Sacramento that would require ignition interlock devices in the cars of California drivers convicted of driving under the influence of alcohol, and an Oakland car accident attorney says the devices could help prevent future crashes.

Ignition interlock devices allow those convicted of a DUI to keep their license and continue driving to jobs but each time they attempt to start their vehicle, they would first need to take a breath-test that measures their blood alcohol level.

An Oakland car accident lawyer at The Barnes Firm says the devices could save lives and prevent crashes on California roadways.

“Drunk driving is a serious problem in the United States and almost one-third of all DUI arrests involved repeat offenders in Oakland,” car accident attorney Landon Vivian said. “Interlock devices would make it much more difficult for drunk drivers to get behind the wheel.”

Typically, those with DUI conviction have their driver’s license revoked or suspended – but recently, this law has posed many problems for safety advocates.

“Nearly half of those with a suspended license keep driving anyhow, whether they’re sober or drunk,” Vivian said. “These offenders put their own lives – and the lives of others – at risk every time they get behind the wheel.”

Sen. Jerry Hill (D-San Mateo) is urging support for a new bill that would require ignition interlock devices to be installed in offenders’ cars. The bill is also getting support from San Francisco Police, Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), and several families of victims killed by drunk drivers.

In 2010, the California Department of Motor Vehicles launched a test program in four counties. Researchers concluded the pilot program did not reduce drunk driving in general but the study is still under review.

“Now I know how those people feel standing in line at the DMV,” Sen. Hill said of the study’s tortoise-speed pace.

Currently, 25 states mandate ignition interlocks for convicted DUI offenders. Despite the DMV’s initial findings, a new University of Pennsylvania study determined that in-car breathalyzers cut drunk-driving deaths by 15-percent.

“We represent many people who have been injured by a drunk driver and we see first-hand the devastation and grief families must endure because their loved ones encountered a drunk driver,” Vivian said. “Around 10,000 people are killed every year – and thousands more are injured because of a person’s negligent decision to get behind the wheel when they’re intoxicated. We want to avoid these crashes at all costs.”

If a drunk driver has caused you or your family members physical or emotional pain, the Oakland car accident lawyers at The Barnes Firm could help obtain the best result possible. Call them today for a free consultation.

The Barnes Firm 1-(800) 800-0000