Breath Alcohol Ignition Device Will Save Lives

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The Casper Star Tribune reported that Wyoming legislators have passed a law that may reduce injury and death in alcohol-related car accidents. Currently punishments for those convicted of DUI may include fines, jail time, and the loss of driving privileges. Studies show that of those convicted of DUI who lose their driving privileges, 50-70 percent continue to drive. This law passed Saturday will permit DUI offenders to continue to drive by utilizing a new technology known as the Breath Alcohol Ignition Interlock Device (BIID). This device is comparable to the police Breathalyzer tests. The BIID, once installed in a car, will not allow the car to drive until it registers a breath with an acceptable Breath Alcohol Content (BAC). Safeguards are in place to ensure that the breath is actually from the offender and random breath samples are required to ensure drivers maintain the appropriate BAC. There is widespread support for this law from consumer, government and business groups as a means of protecting drivers.