Tennessee has recently passed new laws to crack down on DUIs and to get drivers to reconsider before they drive under the influence. One of the latest laws was enacted in January 2024 that requires all Ignition Interlock Devices to be armed with GPS technology. This GPS technology will now geotag the vehicle’s location any time the driver completes a breathalyzer test, attempts to circumvent the test, or skips a test. These devices work to ensure that drivers with a history of DUIs are not able to drive under the influence. These laws work to keep drunk drivers off the Tennessee roads.
What are TN DUI Tracking Devices?
Ignition Interlock Devices, or IIDs, are also known as Ignition breathalyzers. These breathalyzers are wired into a vehicle’s ignition system and require a driver’s breath sample before the engine starts or periodically while the driver is on the road. These devices are instrumental in allowing those with a history to go about their normal lives while keeping them from DUI.
When Are DUI Tracking Devices Required in TN?
Tennessee DUI laws have serious penalties if you are found guilty of driving while under the influence. With 1 in every 3 car accidents involving a DUI with an average of over 25% of fatal crashes involving drunk drivers, Tennessee decided to make some significant changes in its laws, hoping for a change. If you are a first-time offender, do not expect any leniency in Tennessee. Most DUI cases require an IID to be installed for at least a year.
What Information Do DUI Tracking Devices Collect?
With these strict laws, IIDs could potentially become widely known throughout the state. The IID prevents the vehicle from starting unless the BAC is .02% or less. In the final days of having the IID, the driver has to be without any violations ensuring that they are making good choices before driving. The breathalyzers collect geotag data on the driver when they are performing the tests or if any tampering is suspected.
These IIDs will geotag the location when:
- The driver does the initial start-up test
- The driver is required to randomly test
- The driver skips a test
- The driver tries to circumvent the test
The law states that the GPS is not to track the vehicle, due to constitutional reasons continuously. These breathalyzers are becoming a requirement to earn the right to drive again after a DUI.
What Happens if I Tamper with a DUI Tracking Device?
Tampering with an IID has hefty consequences. The IID manufacturers report violations to the state’s program monthly. Violations and tampering vary slightly, but the overlap of the offenses results in the same consequences.
- Tampering or circumventing your IID may result in your 365 days to start over
- Any Violations in the final 120 days will result in a 120 extension
- Fines ranging from $1,00-5,000
- Jail time up to 18 months
- Revoking a restricted license or a lifetime suspension
All IIDs in Tennessee have cameras attached that take pictures during the designated usage times. Although they do not have video or microphone capabilities, they are vital in proving tampering or even used in cases to defend clients who have had wrongful extensions.
Fighting a DUI Charge in Putnam County? Call The Law Offices of Douglas K. Dennis
Facing DUI charges in Tennessee has become a life-altering legal battle. With the intimidating laws that the state has put into place, although they are to deter drunk drivers from getting behind the wheel, they can destroy first-time offenders who may not have even been over the .08% BAC.
The Putnam County DUI lawyers at the Law Office of Douglas K Dennis understand how the ramifications that even first-time offenders face can be intimidating, and we want to help our clients face their cases with confidence. Fight your DUI case by contacting us to start with a free and confidential consultation to help get you back on track.
