NCJ Number
231860
Journal
THE POLICE CHIEF Volume: 77 Issue: 7 Dated: July 2010 Pages: 24-27
Date Published
July 2010
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This article examines the use of ignition interlocks in the area of traffic safety.
Abstract
Results of a study published in May 2010 indicate that the recidivism rate for first-time alcohol offenders is the same as that for second-time offenders, given the leniency often offered to the first-time offender. Additional research has shown that ignition interlocks are effective in reducing re-arrest rates for alcohol offenders, with reductions in subsequent arrests ranging anywhere from 50 to 90 percent. Currently, 12 States require ignition interlocks for all offenders, 9 States require them for high blood alcohol concentrations (BAC), 8 States have other ignition interlock requirements, and 18 State have made them optional. Despite this, research indicates that ignition interlocks are still considerably underused as a tool to prevent alcohol impaired driving. The current draft of the Federal Highway Reauthorization Bill contains language to incentive States to pass ignition interlock laws. Research has just begun on technologies to develop a non-invasive, in-vehicle alcohol detection system that can quickly and accurately measure a driver's BAC level to determine if they are over the legal limit for impaired driving. 1 figure and 7 notes