If you, or someone you know, has recently received a DUI conviction you may have heard a little something about an ignition interlock device. When you are convicted of a DUI in Colorado, the conviction typically comes with a minimum period of license suspension. What this means is that you will not be able to legally operate a motor vehicle for a year or more after you receive your conviction. While Fort Collins is a very bicycle-friendly town, this can be quite inconvenient for many Coloradans who need to commute to work on a daily basis, especially if your trip is longer. During those winter months it can really be rough riding your bike or walking to work.

But, thankfully, there is another option that is provided. If you elect to, you can pay to have an ignition interlock device installed on your primary vehicle. This device hooks into the car’s ignition and requires that the driver blow into a breathalyzer-like mouthpiece to verify that he or she is not intoxicated before driving. The interlock device also requires periodic tests while driving. These will ask the driver to pull over to perform the test. You can get an ignition interlock device installed at your local auto shop. The state will not pay for the device, however. The owner of the car is on the hook for the expense. However, it can definitely be better than being unable to drive at all.

Ignition interlock systems may be required after a DUI conviction.

At Fort Collins Foreign Car Service, car repair is our bread and butter, but ignition interlock installation is also something we specialize in. Our shop has installed hundreds of the devices and has the experience and expertise to do it right the first time. So, if you are looking for a local auto shop to get an ignition interlock device installed, come in and talk to us and we can give you more information about the device and the process. Next time you come in for a car repair at your local auto shop, ask us about it.

A word of warning to those who have received a DUI conviction and are planning to drive without a license. Not only is this irresponsible and dangerous to others on the road, it is illegal and you could be looking at jail time if the police catch you operating your car without a valid license. At Fort Collins Foreign Car Service we want to get you back on the road, but drunken driving is not something to scoff at. It causes a large portion of all auto accidents in America and even if this was your first conviction, you can understand that the imperative is to protect life and the extra expense and safety is undoubtedly worth the additional cost. That is, unless you really were just looking for an excuse to ride your bike more often.