MADD Seeks Ignition Interlock Device For 1st DWI

In the state of Texas, DWI laws have become increasingly tougher and could become even more strict if MADD (Mothers Against Drunk Driving) have anything to do with it. MADD has officially started pushing Texas lawmakers to pass a law requiring first time DWI offenders to install an ignition interlock device in their vehicles. Only 17 states currently require first time DWI offenders to install the device, although, the National Transportation Safety Board has also recommended the law be passed in all states. The ignition interlock device works by requiring drivers to blow into the machine with no traces of alcohol on their breath before the vehicle will start.

While these devices do help prevent drunk driving, they are costly and some Texas drivers believe the law would be too harsh for first time offenders. Local San Antonio news station Kens 5 spoke to a couple of drivers with one person saying, “No, I think everyone should be given the opportunity to learn from their mistakes initially. After that, if there’s a repeat offender, they should pose a stiffer penalty for those individuals“. Another driver thought the law would be beneficial and said, “That’s good. It (ignition interlock) won’t give them an opportunity to get in trouble“. In addition to the ignition interlock device law, the San Antonio Police Department is also asking lawmakers to consider permanent DWI checkpoints throughout the state.

If you have been arrested for driving drunk, contact an experienced and skilled Texas DWI attorney for legal assistance.