What happens if you are ordered to use an Interlock Device but you need to travel? Can you vacation in Mexico or Canada, for instance, and take the Interlock Device out of the country while you’re on an Interlock Device program? There is no black or white answer to this question. In fact, this question must be answered on a case-by-case basis, if you can travel with your Interlock at all.

There are different factors to think about if you want to ask your State Authority about this option.

Customer Service Support

Constant customer service support is a factor a lot of clients take relief in during their program. If you decide to take the Interlock Device out of the country, receiving assistance could be difficult. For instance, if a Lockout were to happen, you would not be able to reach any of our service centers within the U.S. Although Smart Start is an international provider, every country’s regulations are different, and will not apply to your program in the U.S.

Stay in the U.S. For Your Program

Smart Start recommends staying in the U.S. while on your Interlock Device program. As well as the above reasons, you could receive unintended legal consequences.

Remaining in your state of conviction during your period with the Interlock will save you confusion and stress. You’ll be able to easily access the support and assistance you need, as well as being able to visit our service center on your scheduled calibration appointments.

Speaking of appointments, calibration updates for your Interlock must occur at our service center every 30 or 60 days, depending on the state you live in. Keeping up with these appointments is important! If you miss one, this could result in additional charges and consequences from your State Authority.

Do you still need to install an Interlock Device? Call Smart Start at 800-831-3299 or fill out our quick and simple online form for a quote.

It’s an interesting question. What exactly defines a DWI or DUI? Most people know that if you are driving impaired in a vehicle, you’ll be convicted of these types of charges.

Would someone be charged of a DWI/DUI while operating a horse and buggy though?

It appears to be that way in some states.

Horse and Buggy DWI/DUI Incidents

In New York, a 17-year-old boy had an open container of beer while operating a horse-drawn buggy. Police chased him down after he took off when they tried to stop him. The teen was charged with unlawful possession of an alcoholic beverage while being underage, among other offenses.

In Pennsylvania, an Amish man was arrested on drunk driving charges while he was sleeping in his buggy. His BrAC level was .018, more than twice the nationwide limit of .08.

Although DUI means Driving Under the Influence, states may consider people riding impaired on a horse-drawn buggy as operating, or driving, a ‘vehicle’ anyway. In any case, travel on public roadways while intoxicated is a dangerous choice, no matter which mode of transportation you choose.

Even using a wheelchair while intoxicated can mean a DUI, or riding a horse by itself.

All states have different regulations when it comes to impaired driving. Some even have different acronyms, such as OWI. In addition, some states will use DUI for one meaning, and DWI for another. We cover what DUI/DWI means in a previous blog that might clear these definitions up.

Smart Start is the number one choice as an Interlock Device vendor nationwide. We provide a discreet device with accurate, speedy tests and no hidden fees. If you need an Interlock Device, call Smart Start at 800-831-3299 or fill out our quick and simple online form for a quote.

If you are ordered to use Smart Start’s SMART Mobile as your portable device, your program will be seamless with the best in alcohol monitoring technology.

Here’s a few advantages why your court-ordered SMART Mobile means ease of use, and a successful program.

Easy, Fast and Accurate Tests

When you take your test, your SMART Mobile will determine your breath alcohol concentration level (BrAC) within seconds. There will be no kink in your everyday routine as long as you maintain your testing schedule with your device. In addition, SMART Mobile has fuel cell technology, which detects breath alcohol at the most accurate rate worldwide.

Going to Work? Need to Travel? No Problem

Here’s the big perk with your SMART Mobile: you can take the device anywhere, whether it is in its case at your workplace, at your house or even on a plane.

Discreet and Handheld

The SMART Mobile is a small, handheld device that comes with its own case for a discreet look. For example, you can easily take your device anywhere to take your test if you are in a crowded setting, such as a restaurant. Your tests only require you to blow into the mouthpiece for a few seconds, and then you’re done!

Receive the Support of a Nationwide Leader

Smart Start has been in the alcohol monitoring industry since 1992. We will provide the best customer service from start to finish of your program. Not only do we maintain excellent service, we also make sure we don’t leave a huge gap in your wallet. There are no hidden fees or monthly contracts involved. We also provide bilingual assistance if needed.

Ask for more information on the SMART Mobile through our customer care service center at 800-831-3299.

Smart Start offers the best in alcohol monitoring technology so our clients can get back on the road. Many people come to us based on a court or state order that requires them to install an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) in their vehicle.

That seems OK, but what if you don’t have a vehicle? How will you comply with what the court or state requires?

There are several options available to you so you can complete your program, and continue with your routine.

A Family Member or Friend’s Vehicle

We suggest installing your IID into a vehicle owned by a family member or friend. Depending on your state, you’ll only need the registered owner’s written permission, or a specific form. This form can be provided to you by our customer service representatives via email or chat on our website. However, before installation, you should check with the court or state, whomever required you to install an IID, to determine if this is OK.

Make sure to ask your State Authority the options you have, since every state is different with their Interlock Device regulations. When you call Smart Start, you can also ask our customer service team so we can help you out as much as we can.

SMART Mobile, Our Portable Alcohol Monitoring Device

Another option may occur where your court could sign you up for our SMART Mobile, a portable alcohol monitoring device that you can take anywhere. You cannot choose the SMART Mobile yourself, however, since it is a court-ordered product. Keep in mind that some court orders will specify you need an Interlock Device only!

Smart Start looks forward to partnering with you throughout your program! Choosing us means you’ve chosen a reliable and affordable Device that is compliant with every state we operate in. We also try to make sure you are getting the best deal by offering free installs or a free first month on your lease, although every state’s specials do not currently have a special or are different.

Need to install an Interlock Device? Call our customer service representatives today at 800-831-3299 or fill out our simple and quick online form.

Getting an Interlock Device installed in your vehicle can seem a little worrisome. If it is going to be a part of your vehicle, will an Interlock Device void a vehicle’s warranty? The short answer, when installing an Interlock Device, is no.

Why? Because Interlock Devices are an aftermarket accessory for your vehicle.

Why Interlock Devices Won’t Void Your Vehicle’s Warranty

An aftermarket accessory, per the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), is “a part made by a company other than the vehicle manufacturer or the original equipment manufacturer.” Aftermarket accessories are considered as parts that do not affect the operation of your vehicle, which defines an Interlock Device.

In other words, just like installing an aftermarket alarm system for your car, your Interlock Device will not void your warranty. Think of the Interlock as an add-on accessory to your vehicle that is temporary, not as an actual change.

Interlock Provider Research

Make sure you conduct some research on reputable, state-approved vendors before choosing an Interlock Device. Some Interlock companies do not have licensed, qualified technicians taking care of your vehicle. This could lead to vehicle damage when they install or remove the Device.

Smart Start has only the best products and service in the Interlock Device industry. Our technicians are fully licensed and qualified to take the best care of your vehicle. They will also provide you hands-on training with your Interlock before you leave the service center.

Both our SSI-20/30™ and SSI-20/20™ has fuel cell technology, which is alcohol-specific.

Having this technology and service means we are providing you the utmost accuracy, safety and speed in Interlock Devices.

We hope we have alleviated some of the fears that may have come to mind regarding Interlocks.

If you are with Smart Start and ever have any questions about your program, feel free to call our 24/7/365 bilingual customer care center at 800-831-3299.

Do you need to install an Interlock Device? As a nationwide leader in Interlock Devices, Smart Start is ready to assist and will provide you a quote. Call us today to schedule an appointment at your nearest service center at 800-831-3299 or fill out our quick and simple online form.