Written by: In Virginia, all those convicted of DUI must now have an ignition interlock device installed in their vehicle in order to drive on a restricted license, even if it’s a first DUI and there is no evidence of blood alcohol content at all. An ignition is a pain for a number of reasons: it is not inexpensive; it is difficult to coordinate installation; the driver has to blow into it each and every time the vehicle is started.
Of course, an ignition interlock device is only one negative consequence of a DUI. When you add the other direct, incidental and consequential costs (fine, court costs, counseling, increased insurance, limitation on where and when you can drive during the restricted driver’s license period) the total costs for being convicted of a DUI escalate.