What Bac Does Interlock Fail?
An ignition interlock device (IID) is a breathalyzer installed in a vehicle to prevent individuals from driving under the influence of alcohol. It is a device commonly used for individuals convicted of DUI (Driving Under the Influence) offenses. The interlock device requires the driver to blow into it, and if the blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is above a certain limit, the vehicle will not start. While interlock devices are generally effective, there are certain situations where they may fail to accurately measure the BAC level.
Here are some reasons why an interlock device may fail to accurately measure the BAC:
1. Mouth Alcohol: If the driver has consumed any alcohol-containing substances, such as mouthwash or breath fresheners, it can result in a false positive reading.
2. Residual Alcohol: In some cases, the device might detect residual alcohol in the mouth, even if the driver hasn’t consumed any alcoholic beverages recently.
3. Calibration Issues: Interlock devices require regular calibration to ensure accurate readings. If the device is not properly calibrated, it can lead to false readings.
4. Environmental Factors: Extreme weather conditions, such as extreme heat or cold, can affect the accuracy of the device.
5. Device Malfunction: Like any other electronic device, interlock devices can malfunction, leading to inaccurate readings.
6. User Error: If the driver does not blow into the device correctly or follows improper testing procedures, it can result in false readings.
7. Improper Installation: If the interlock device is not installed correctly, it can affect its performance and accuracy.
8. Interference from Other Substances: Certain substances, such as cleaning products or cigarette smoke, may interfere with the device’s reading.
9. Device Tampering: Drivers may attempt to tamper with the device to cheat the system, which can lead to inaccurate readings.
10. Battery Issues: If the device’s battery is low or defective, it can affect the accuracy of the readings.
11. Software Glitches: Occasionally, software glitches can cause the device to provide false readings.
12. Faulty Sensors: The sensors within the interlock device may become faulty over time, resulting in inaccurate readings.
FAQs:
1. Can interlock devices be fooled?
No, interlock devices are designed to detect and prevent any attempts to fool the system.
2. Can interlock devices give false positives?
Yes, certain factors such as mouth alcohol or residual alcohol can result in false positive readings.
3. Can interlock devices malfunction?
Yes, like any electronic device, interlock devices can malfunction, leading to inaccurate readings.
4. Can smoking affect interlock device readings?
Yes, cigarette smoke can interfere with the device’s reading.
5. How often should interlock devices be calibrated?
Interlock devices should be calibrated regularly as per the manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Can extreme weather affect interlock device accuracy?
Yes, extreme weather conditions can affect the accuracy of the device.
7. Can cleaning products interfere with interlock devices?
Yes, certain cleaning products may interfere with the device’s reading.
8. Can the battery affect interlock device accuracy?
Yes, a low or defective battery can affect the accuracy of the readings.
9. Can the interlock device be installed improperly?
Yes, improper installation can affect the device’s performance and accuracy.
10. Can mouthwash affect interlock device readings?
Yes, mouthwash containing alcohol can result in false positive readings.
11. Can the interlock device detect tampering?
Yes, interlock devices are designed to detect tampering attempts.
12. Can software glitches affect interlock device readings?
Yes, software glitches can cause the device to provide false readings.
In conclusion, while interlock devices are generally effective in detecting alcohol levels, there are several factors that can cause them to fail in accurately measuring the BAC. It is important for users to be aware of these factors and take necessary precautions to ensure accurate readings and compliance with the law.