Illinois Secretary of State pushes for cameras in cars of DUI offenders
For several years now, Illinois has required first-time offenders of driving under the influence (DUI) to have breath alcohol ignition interlock devices (BAIID) installed on their vehicles if they wanted to be able to drive while their license was suspended – which is device that prevents a car from starting unless the driver blows into the device to prove the absence of alcohol on the driver’s breath.
Recently, the Illinois Secretary of State’s office recommended that additional restrictions also be placed on Illinois DUI offenders; namely, that cameras be installed in their cars as well.
Under the proposal – which was reported by WIFR News – a photo would be taken of the driver every time he or she blows into the BAIID, which would be subsequently stored in a database and used if the validity of a specific alcohol test was ever questioned. DUI offenders would not only be responsible for paying for the cameras, but also for the monitoring fees.
The recommendation was recently proposed by the Secretary of State’s office to the Joint Committee on Administrative Rules – who will evaluate the suggestion and possibly present to the Illinois General Assembly. If passed, Illinois would be the sixth state to mandate cameras for DUI offenders.
Illinois ignition interlock laws
Illinois already has some of the toughest laws in the country for DUI offenders. As already referenced, first-time DUI offenders must install BAIIDs if they want to obtain the necessary permits to drive while their license is suspended – permits known as Monitoring Device Driving Permits, or MDDPs. While participation in the MDDP program is not required, DUI offenders cannot drive during the license suspension period if they elect not to participate.
Furthermore, if the Secretary of State learns of a conviction of any violation where a person was driving a motor vehicle not equipped win an ignition interlock device during a period when that driver was banned from driving a vehicle without one, the Secretary of State can postpone issuing a license to that driver for an entire year more.
As this article illustrates, the laws surrounding DUI convictions are quite severe, and if the recently proposed camera law is ever passed, they will become even more restricting. Consequently, if you have been arrested or charged for a DUI in Illinois, it is imperative to speak with an experienced DUI defense attorney in order to protect your rights. A knowledgeable criminal defense attorney will not only be able to provide guidance but may also help in arguing defenses that the charged individual may not have been aware of.
