False Positives on Ignition Interlocks?

Court judges rely now more than ever on Ignition Interlock technology. So it may not seem shocking when judges don’t believe individuals who say products like breath mints cause ‘false positives’ on their Ignition Interlocks.

In fact, in a news article related to someone blaming breath mints for a ‘false positive’ on the Ignition Interlock, prosecutors say that an “Ignition Interlock is one of the best ways to protect the community from drunken drivers.”

Breath Mints and False Positive Ignition Interlock Tests?

There’s a misconception with Ignition Interlocks when it comes to someone drinking alcohol and taking a test, versus using a product such as breath mints with alcohol in it and then blowing into the device.

There are no ‘false positives’ from an Ignition Interlock when you consume or use a product that has some alcohol in it. The device is meant to detect alcohol in the user’s breath.

When one uses mouthwash for instance with some alcohol in it, the device will detect this alcohol content from your breath. That is why Smart Start always recommends clients swish their mouths with water. The alcohol from the mouthwash will quickly dissipate from the water, and then they can take their test again. Alcohol in these types of products are much more quick to dissipate versus drinking alcoholic beverages.

In the late 80s and early 90s, Ignition Interlocks were reliable. However, there were still ways for users to bypass or circumvent the device. Now, with state-approved vendors’ devices using alcohol-specific fuel cell-technology, Ignition Interlocks are a dependable, solid tool that stops drunk driving. In fact, as of January 2018, mandatory, all-offender Ignition Interlock laws are present in 30 states and D.C.

If you must use an Ignition Interlock, rest assured that you will have a dependable device. All vendors’ devices that are state-approved must follow current federal standards to ensure a seamless, reliable and easy Ignition Interlock program.

Need an Ignition Interlock?

Choose Smart Start to get you back on the road safely. To schedule an installation appointment, call our Customer Care Center at (800) 831-3299 or fill out our short online form.