Built-in Alcohol Detection/Ignition Interlock System

Home – Practice Areas – Blogs - Interlock Systems

Will Your Next Car Have a Built-in Alcohol Detection/Ignition Interlock System?

In certain circumstances, a Minnesota DWI arrest can lead to the requirement that a driver may not legally operate any motor vehicle that does not have an external ignition interlock device installed.

The interlock device is a small box installed near the steering wheel that includes a blowing tube. It is connected to the engine and prevents the vehicle from starting if it detects a certain alcohol concentration level (.02) after the driver blows into the tube.

In the future, all drivers may be required to have factory-installed alcohol detection/ignition interlock systems in their vehicles regardless of whether or not they have been previously arrested for DWI.

Since 2008, The Driver Alcohol Detection System for Safety Program (DADSS) – a joint effort between the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Automotive Coalition for Traffic Safety (ACTS) – has been quietly developing in-vehicle alcohol detection technology in an effort to curb DWI incidents by making every new vehicle inoperable if the driver has been drinking.

The stated goal of the DADSS Research Program is “to advance the state of alcohol detection technology by developing a system that is fast, accurate, reliable and affordable — all without affecting normal driving behavior.” The program has explored two different possible technologies that could someday be installed in all new vehicles:

Breath-Based System

Unlike the breath tube found in today’s external ignition interlock equipment, the internal breath-based system would measure alcohol taken from a driver’s normal breathing. It would be designed to take instantaneous readings from the driver and to accurately and reliably distinguish between the driver’s breath from that of any passengers.

Touch-Based System

The touch-based system would measure alcohol levels by transdermal means – that is, by measuring alcohol beneath the skin surface. This would be accomplished by shining an infrared-light through the driver’s fingertip. This technology would be integrated into controls already found in vehicles, such as the start button or steering wheel, and would be designed to take multiple, accurate readings. It is unclear how this technology would work for drivers who wear gloves.

While initial exploratory research conducted by DADSS established the feasibility of the two different sensor approaches for in-vehicle use, sensor technology has subsequently improved, and the program is now working to develop prototypes involving unobtrusive and reliable alcohol measurement.

As part of the ongoing research, DDASS plans to have these prototypes integrated into vehicles for a series of field tests, allowing engineers to observe driver behavior and thoroughly test the systems in real-world situations.

According to NHTSA, before DDASS technology can be considered for widespread use, it must be “seamless, accurate, and precise, and unobtrusive to the sober driver.”

The issue of whether or not manufacturers would be required to install the sensors by the government as a mandatory safety feature or whether such technology would meet with public approval are both questions yet to be answered.

As DDASS has not established a timeline for when this technology will be available commercially, don’t look for the technology in your next new vehicle. But someday…

Whether you find yourself facing DWI or criminal charges, our attorneys can meet with you to discuss your options.  At Halberg Criminal Defense, our team approach puts the firm’s collective knowledge and experience in your corner. Our attorneys are available 24-7 — Call us at 612-DEFENSE (612-333-3673).