The Dallas Morning News: Archive Document

Town joins DWI crackdown

First offenders ordered to install breath tester in vehicles

By Associated Press
Published 07-01-1997

MONTICELLO, Ark. - Municipal Judge William R. "Bill" Daniels is going to make certain that first offenders found guilty of driving while intoxicated will have to do more than turn the ignition to start their vehicles.

Beginning Tuesday, those DWI offenders will be required to have an Ignition Interlock system installed in their vehicle for a year.

"Basically, this device looks like a little portable breath test similar to the Breathalizers used by police, only this one is wired to the ignition," he said.

A vehicle will not start until the driver blows into the machine. If any alcohol is detected, the vehicle will not start.

"We are hoping that this system will not only increase public safety, but will help to modify the behavior of those who repeatedly drink and drive," Judge Daniels said.

At least nine other Arkansas cities use the Interlock. They are Osceola, Green Forest, Eureka Springs, West Helena, Paragould, Rogers, Blytheville, De Queen and Ashdown.

A driver who fails the test cannot try again for 15 minutes. Once a driver fails three times in a row, the vehicle shuts down and the driver must call to have the system reset.

"The system may be calibrated so that every 15 minutes, while the car is being driven, the driver must test his breath," Judge Daniels said.

If alcohol is detected while the car is moving, the horn will sound continuously until the ignition is turned off.

Offenders will be ordered to take out a contract with Superior Interlock Services Inc. of Conway, who will install the system and send a serviceman to Monticello each month to do a checkup of the system and also to search for any signs of tampering.

Currently, a DWI citation means an instant driver's license suspension for at least 120 days. Under the new program, offenders will have to show proof that the device has been installed before getting their license returned.

After offenders are eligible to drive again, they will receive a license that is marked with an Interlock restriction. If caught driving a car without an Interlock, offenders will face a misdemeanor charge.

Violators will pay more than $1,000 before their year with the Interlock is completed. This includes installation fees, maintenance costs and fines.

Judge Daniels said he thought the new system would be more effective than raising fines.

"Money is not the issue for someone with a drinking problem," he said. "Most DWIs aren't alcoholics, they may be someone who had a little too much to drink at a party and had no designated driver. Hopefully, making them deal with the Interlock on a daily basis will make them more aware of the seriousness of their mistake."

Associated Press, Town joins DWI crackdown

First offenders ordered to install breath tester in vehicles., 07-01-1997.