NM first state requiring ignition interlock devices for all DWI offenders

A new New Mexico state law is trying to reduce the incidence of drunken driving offenses by becoming the first state in the nation to require all DWI offenders to use ignition interlock devices on their cars.

Even first time DWI offenders will be required to use ignition interlock devices on their cars, and repeat offenders will face stiffer penalties as well, according to a press release from Gov. Bill Richardson's office.

If convicted of a second DWI offense in New Mexico, the interlock on the offender's vehicle must remain for two years and a third DWI conviction will require the offender to have the interlock for three years. A fourth DWI offense and the offender must use the interlock for their rest of their life.

State officials hope the use of the devices will prevent as many DWIs from occurring and more effectively reduce repeat offenses. Ignition interlock devices use a computer chip to measure a driver's blood alcohol level. DWI offenders must pay for the installation costs and monitoring of the devices, which cost around $1,000 per year. For more information on New Mexico DWIs, please contact us to confer with a criminal lawyer.