Trying to deal with a drunk driving charge is not an easy feat. Many people may feel unsure about the next steps to take, uncertain about what’s to come. One crucial consequence of this charge is the revocation of your driving license, which can impact your day-to-day life.
In West Virginia, one key program designed to help individuals regain their driving privileges is the Alcohol & Drug Test and Lock Program. This blog will break down the program’s essentials, helping you understand what it entails and how it can aid in your journey back to the road.
Do you have to join the program?
In West Virginia, if you face a drunk driving charge, participating in the Alcohol & Drug Test and Lock Program might be necessary for you to get back on the road legally. The program will require installing a device that acts as a breathalyzer, preventing the vehicle from starting if it detects elevated blood alcohol content (BAC).
The device doesn’t just test your breath at startup; it also monitors your alcohol levels at random times while driving. It logs every start attempt, records alcohol levels and notes any attempts to tamper with it. This strict monitoring ensures you maintain sobriety while driving and helps build trust with the authorities.
What are the program eligibility requirements?
To participate in the program, you must meet several requirements. First, ensure that no other license revocations are affecting your record.
You should have an active DUI revocation and must not be in the process of appealing it. You must also enroll in or have completed a Safety and Treatment Program within 60 days of starting the Alcohol & Drug Test and Lock Program.
If the vehicle you’ll be using isn’t yours, you’ll need written consent from the owner to install the device. You must also be at least 18 years old to join.
Getting back on the road after a drunk driving charge
While using the ignition interlock device may change your lifestyle, it can clarify the path to regaining your driving privileges. By participating in the program and complying with its rules, you take a significant step toward rebuilding your life and ensuring safer roads.
