The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is making a push to have all states enact laws that would require even a first-time convicted drunk driver to install an ignition interlock device.

The NTSB issued its non-binding recommendation to the 33 states that don't currently require interlock devices for convicted DUI offenders. This push comes on the heels of a government study of wrong-way drivers, and findings that alcohol typically played a role in these deadly accidents, reports USA Today.

Washington state already requires ignition interlocks for anyone convicted of DUI

Washington state is one of the 17 states not impacted by the NTSB's recommendation as the state already has laws that require anyone convicted of drunk driving to install the interlock devices if they want to continue driving.  Under State law (RCW 46.20.720), requires a minimum of 1 year if a person is convicted of a first offense DUI.

An ignition interlock is basically a device that you install into the dashboard of your car. You'll have to blow into the device when you want to start your car, and the device will lock your vehicle if it detects alcohol on your breath. As you drive, you will also be prompted to regularly blow into the device to ensure your sobriety.

As you can see, an interlock device is quite burdensome. Additionally, they are very expensive.  The Washington State Patrol provides a list of approved interlock providers on their website.  Someone convicted of a DUI in Washington must have to bear the expenses of:

• installing, leasing, and removing an ignition interlock device
• maintaining proof of financial responsibility (usually as a SR-22 insurance certificate)
• paying the ignition interlock application fee (which is non-refundable)
• paying the monthly Ignition Interlock Device Revolving Account fee used to help low-income drivers

These fees and costs can amount to thousands of dollars.  And that does not includes the thousands more in costs when you include court fines, alcohol/drug evaluation and any recommended treatment, time missed away from work and attorneys fees.

The DUI attorneys at Wolff Criminal Defense are here to provide professional legal assistance in Seattle and King County if you are facing a DUI charge. Our award-winning attorneys will work with you to get a fair trial, and stand by you every step of the way. Call us today at 425-284-2000, or visit us at WolffCriminalDefense.com to set up a consultation.