Just follow a few rules and everything should be ok ...
5 BASIC RULES YOU MUST FOLLOW
1. DO NOT CONSUME ALCOHOL
I understand that I may fail a test after consuming alcohol even if several hours have passed since my last drink
2. DO NOT USE, INGEST OR OTHERWISE CONSUME ALCOHOL BASED PRODUCTS. DO NOT STORE / SPRAY ALCOHOL BASED PRODUCTS IN THE CAB OR TRUNK OF THE VEHICLE
This includes mouthwash, liquid medications, breath sprays, cleaning agents, deodorizers/air fresheners, *perfumes, *colognes, *hairsprays, hand sanitizer, windshield wiper fluid, gas additives, anti-freeze…
(*These items may be used, but neither these nor any other item should be sprayed in the vehicle) This is not a comprehensive list of all products containing alcohol.
3. DO NOT BLOW INTO THE DEVICE WITH ANYTHING IN YOUR MOUTH – WAIT 1-2 MINUTES AFTER EATING OR DRINKING ANYTHING
After eating, rinse mouth thoroughly with water two to three times and wait approximately one to two minutes before testing.
4. DO NOT LEAVE THE VEHICLE RUNNING UNATTENDED
5. DO NOT REMOVE THE HANDSET WITH THE KEYS IN THE IGNITION
ALL FAILED AND REFUSED TESTS ARE REPORTED AS NON-COMPLIANT
Who is responsible for operating the vehicle safely when taking a breath test?
The driver! Remember you have 5 minutes to take a rolling retest. Stay calm.
What basic rules must be followed to avoid violations?
1. Do not consume alcohol 2. Do not use alcohol based products 3. Never blow into the device with anything in your mouth 4. Never leave the vehicle running unattended (see Policies,General Rules & Instructions for additional info.).
How long do I have to wait to take a test if I have been eating or drinking?
You must wait 1-2 minutes. After eating or drinking anything, you should drink water to clear out your mouth.
Do I have to take a rolling retest if I have just arrived at my destination?
You must always take a test when prompted, even if you are about to turn off the car. Remember, if you have already turned off the vehicle, you may still complete a test if the five minute period has not expired.
What happens if I fail a rolling retest or do not take a rolling retest?
Your horn will start honking. Pull over immediately and turn off your vehicle. You may try to start your vehicle again within a few minutes. Your display will read “Device Lockout in 7 days.”
How much time do I have to take a rolling retest?
You have five minutes to take and complete the test. Remember, you must complete the test before the five minutes expire.
What is the cost of a violation reset? What is the cost of a missed appointment?
Each is $25.00. If you call a day before your appointment to reschedule, you will not be charged a missed appointment fee.
What happens if my vehicle is completely “Locked out?”
You will have to tow the vehicle to our shop. On a first occurrence, we may provide you with an access code. You will be charged $25.00 in addition to any other fees. A second occurrence will cost $50.00 in addition to any other fees. We will not provide you with an access code on a third occurrence. We expect you to get the vehicle to our shop before you are locked out!
How often are reports sent to the Court or probation agency?
We are on a bi-monthly reporting system. However, we will send reports for all violations when they are downloaded or as requested by the Court or your probation agency.
What type of information is sent in the report?
A report is marked “compliant” if there are no failed or refused tests and no evidence of tampering. A report is marked “non-compliant” whenever there are failed or refused tests or evidence of tampering. All the data surrounding a non-compliant event is attached to the report along with an explanation and any comments you have made.
Why is it critical not to have cigarette smoke in the cab of my vehicle?
Cigarette smoke damages the device. If this type of damage occurs, you may not be able to start your vehicle. If you smoke, take 2-3 deep breaths of fresh air before blowing into the device. Don’t smoke in your vehicle.
Am I responsible for violations if I let someone else drive my vehicle?
YES! We do not recommend lending your vehicle to anyone!
Is it okay for the passenger or someone other than the driver to blow into the device?
NO! Only the driver is allowed to take tests. If anyone other than the driver is taking tests, both people can be charged with Class B Misdemeanors. If we find data supporting this type of bypass, we will notify the proper authorities.
What is the penalty for tampering with or circumventing the interlock system?
You will be charged with a Class B Misdemeanor and be found in violation of your current probation.
Will the interlock system drain my vehicle’s battery?
No! However, it is designed to detect low voltage. If your battery goes under 8 volts, the system may not turn on. You will need to charge your battery or get a new battery. Connecting and disconnecting the battery cables will restore the system.
What should I do if I have to take my vehicle to a mechanic?
You must notify the mechanic to contact our office before working on your vehicle. If you are present during the repairs, you should tell the mechanic that you need to blow into the device before it is started. Also tell the mechanic you need to take rolling retests. If you are placed in a violation mode after your vehicle was serviced, you are still responsible for the $25.00 violation reset fee.