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Home › Blog › False Positives on Ignition Interlocks?

False Positives on Ignition Interlocks?
The information in this blog is for general informational purposes only, may not reflect the most current developments, is not intended to and should not be relied upon or construed as a legal opinion or legal advice or to address all circumstances that might arise. See full disclaimer.

False Positives on Ignition Interlocks?

January 29, 2018

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.

Save time and money during your IID program. Discover quality and affordable Interlock Devices at Smart Start. Get Started!

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https://www.smartstartinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/IMG_7554.jpg 1000 1500 Blair https://www.smartstartinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/smartstartlogo-notagline-2020.svg Blair2018-01-29 10:01:212023-10-01 12:48:47False Positives on Ignition Interlocks?

Disclaimer

The information in this blog is for general informational purposes only. Information may be dated and may not reflect the most current developments. The materials contained herein are not intended to and should not be relied upon or construed as a legal opinion or legal advice or to address all circumstances that might arise. You should contact your attorney to obtain advice with respect to any particular legal matter. Only your individual attorney can provide assurances that the information contained herein – and your interpretation of it – is applicable or appropriate to your particular situation. Links to any third-party websites herein are provided for your reference and convenience only; Smart Start does not recommend or endorse such third party sites or their accuracy or reliability. Smart Start expressly disclaims all liability regarding all content, materials, and information, and with respect to actions taken or not taken in reliance on such. The content is provided “as is;” no representations are made that the content is error-free.

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