Vehicle accidents have become an increasing problem in the state of Alabama and this new legislation requiring anti-DUI devices should be a major step in curbing this growing trend, Alabama attorney Keith T. Belt says.

Finally joining the remaining 50 states, Gov. Robert Bentley signed a bill that mandates the use of ignition interlock devices for those convicted of driving under the influence in Alabama.

This device attaches to a vehicle’s dashboard and requires a driver to blow into a Breatha­lyzer prior to starting the vehicle. If the device detects an al­cohol level greater than an estab­lished baseline, the vehicle will not start. The interlock device will also require the driver to breathe at several points during the process of driving, logging failed tests without stop­ping the operation of the vehicle.

Under Alabama’s law, all first-time DUI offenders injuring some­one and having a blood-alcohol level of .15 or greater, refusing to provide a blood alcohol content or having a child under 14 in the car would be required to have the ignition in­terlock device for two years following the 90-day suspension of their li­cense.

A second conviction, regard­less of the circumstances, would require the installation of the de­vice for two years following the restora­tion of their license.

Third-time of­fenders would be required to drive with the devices for three years with subsequent offenses requiring the
devices be kept in place for five years.

Although bills mandating ignition inter­lock devices had been introduced in the state Legislature for sever­al years, they have never made it to pas­sage.

These device prices vary; according to Internet websites leases run between $65 and $125 a month, not counting the installation cost. The legislation includes a means for providing the devices to the indigent thereby alleviating the concerns of some groups.

MADD state victim serv­ices coordinator Pamela Morton said she was “sur­prised” it took all this time to get the
bill passed, but was happy with the result.”Alabama is the 50th state to get some form of this bill passed, but we choose to look at the fact lives will be saved through this effort,” she said

About Belt Law Firm, P.C.

Belt Law Firm, P.C., is an Alabama personal injury law firm that represents the victims of dangerous and defective products throughout the communities of Birmingham, Bessemer, Cullman, Tuscaloosa, Jasper, Homewood, Jefferson County, Shelby County, Walker County, Blount County and Saint Clair County. Although the firm’s focus is on regional litigation in Alabama, the firm’s attorneys have also represented clients in Tennessee, Georgia, Florida, Arkansas, Mississippi, Texas, New Mexico, Colorado and Delaware. To learn more, call the firm toll-free at (888) 933-1514 or use its online form.