Ask the DMV: Ignition devices help put the brakes on repeat drunk drivers
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<div class=\"story_content\"><p><strong>Q:</strong> I heard about a new law that requires drivers convicted of driving under-the-influence to install an ignition interlock device.</p> <p>What is an ignition interlock device?<br /><br /><strong>A:</strong> An ignition interlock device (IID) is a device slightly larger than a cell phone that is wired to a vehicle?s ignition.</p> <p>The device requires a breath sample before the engine will start. If the device detects alcohol on the driver?s breath, the engine will not start. The car will start if alcohol is not detected.</p> <p>The ignition interlock device also requires a periodic breath sample to ensure the continued absence of alcohol in the driver?s system.<br />These devices have proven effective in reducing drunk driving.</p> <p>The International Council on Alcohol, Drugs and Traffic Safety maintains that these devices, when combined with a comprehensive monitoring and service program, lead to a 40 to 95 percent reduction in the rate of repeat drunk driving offenses among offenders as long as the ignition interlock device remains on the vehicle.</p> <p>A new law, which requires drivers convicted of a DUI in the counties of Los Angeles, Alameda, Sacramento, and Tulare to install an ignition interlock device and participate in a pilot program, goes into effect on July 1, 2010.</p> <p>After the initial period a study will then be conducted to determine the effectiveness of reducing repeat drunk driving offenses in those four counties.<br /><br /><strong>Q:</strong> My car is a two-seater and my 5-year-old niece is staying with me for the weekend.</p> <p>I know the law states that anyone under the age of 6 has to ride in the back seat of a car. Does the law still apply to me if I only have room for two people? <br /><br /><strong>A: </strong>A child under the age of 6 or weighing less than 60 pounds may ride in the front seat of a vehicle when:</p> <p>? There is no rear seat or the rear seats are either side-facing jump seats or rear-facing seats.</p> <p>? The child passenger restraint system cannot be installed properly in the rear seat.</p> <p>? All rear seats are already occupied by children under the age of 12.</p> <p>? A medical reason requires the child to ride in the front seat. <br />For more information on child restraint system and safety seats visit dmv.ca.gov and click the Publication tab and follow the link to the Driver?s Handbook, and look for the Child Restraint System and Safety Seats section.</p> <p><em>George Valverde is the director of the California Department of Motor Vehicles. Submit any DMV-related questions at askdmv@dmv.ca.gov. </em></p></div>