New Hampshire law requires some people convicted of driving under the influence of alcohol (DUI) to have an ignition interlock device installed on their vehicles. The device tests the driver’s blood alcohol concentration (BAC) and prevents the car from starting if the driver has been drinking. Many other U.S. states have ignition interlock laws as well; here’s a look at how New Hampshire ignition interlock laws compare to those across the nation.
Thirteen U.S. states, including New York, require an ignition interlock device for all drivers convicted of a DUI, even for a first conviction, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Ten states, including New Hampshire, require ignition interlock devices for both drivers convicted of having a BAC above 1.17 percent and drivers convicted of two or more DUIs in five years. Eight states require ignition interlock devices for either high-BAC convictions or multiple convictions, but not both, and nineteen states have no ignition interlock requirements at all.
New Hampshire’s ignition interlock laws are relatively tough compared to the laws in the U.S. as a whole. Some New Hampshire drivers will not be required to place an ignition interlock device on their cars even if they are given a DUI conviction. However, the penalties for any DUI conviction in New Hampshire are harsh.
At Tenn And Tenn, P.A., our experienced New Hampshire DUI defense attorneys focus on providing an aggressive defense that fights to protect our clients’ rights while seeking the best possible outcome in each case. To learn more about how we can help you face a drunk driving charge in New Hampshire, call us today at (888) 332-5855 for a free and confidential telephone consultation.