Iid Devices: How Auto Insurance Rates Are Impacted

If you've been convicted of a DUI, you may be required to install an ignition interlock device (IID) in your vehicle. This will prevent you from using that vehicle to drive drunk, as you'll need to submit a clean breath sample to start the car. While having an IID installed won't directly affect your auto insurance, a DUI conviction will cause your insurance rates to skyrocket. However, you can ask your insurance company for a discount if you've voluntarily installed an IID, as it shows you're taking sober driving seriously.

Insurance companies' reaction to IIDs

Insurance companies' reactions to IIDs (ignition interlock devices) vary. The main factor affecting your insurance is a DUI/DWI conviction, which will cause your insurance rates to increase by an average of 80% and will remain on your record for 3–5 years, or 10 years if you live in California. After a DUI/DWI conviction, your insurance company may drop you as a customer, considering you a high-risk driver.

However, if your insurance company does not drop you, they may raise your rates and installing an IID could qualify you for a reduced rate. Insurance companies are aware of research that demonstrates the effectiveness of IIDs in preventing drunk driving, and you may be able to ask for a discount on your increased rate if you have an IID installed. This is especially true if you voluntarily install an IID as part of your recovery program or to prevent a teen driver from drinking and driving. In this case, an insurance company may consider it a safety feature and give you a discount, although this is not guaranteed.

If you are required by law to install an IID, it is unlikely that this will affect your insurance rates. In this case, your insurance company may not care whether you have an IID or not, and will consider you a high-risk driver regardless.

IID installation requirements

If you have been convicted of a DUI (Driving Under the Influence) or DWI (Driving While Intoxicated), you may be required to install an IID (Ignition Interlock Device) in your vehicle. An IID is a device about the size of a cell phone that is wired to your vehicle's ignition and requires you to provide a breath sample before the engine will start. If alcohol is detected on your breath, the engine will not start.

• Court Order or State Law: The installation of an IID may be ordered by a court or required by your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) following a DUI/DWI conviction. In some states, even first-time offenders are required to install an IID to regain full driving privileges.
• Installation Process: You will need to contact an authorized IID manufacturer or installer to schedule your installation appointment. The installer should have a valid license issued by the relevant regulatory body, such as the Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR) or the Bureau of Household Goods and Services (BHGS).
• Required Documents: At the installation appointment, you will typically need to provide two valid forms of identification, one of which includes a photo. You may also need to provide proof of residence, relevant court documents, and vehicle registration. If you don't own the vehicle, you may need a letter of permission from the registered owner.
• Calibration and Training: During the installation, the IID will be calibrated specifically for you and any other drivers of the vehicle. The installer will also provide training on how to use the device properly, including how to submit breath samples and understand any sounds, lights, or messages.
• Verification of Installation: After the installation is complete, the installer will provide you with a verification form, such as a DL 920 form, confirming that the IID has been installed in accordance with the DUI/DWI conviction. This form is typically submitted to the DMV.
• Regular Maintenance and Inspections: IIDs must be inspected and calibrated by a certified installer at regular intervals, usually every 30 to 60 days. Non-compliance with these requirements may result in suspension or revocation of your driving privileges.
• Service Visits: During your installation appointment, you will schedule your first service visit. Service visits typically occur at the same location as the installation and usually take about 20 minutes.
• Costs: There are costs associated with installing and maintaining an IID, including monthly payments. Some states offer reduced fees for individuals with income levels within federal poverty guidelines.

IID installation costs

The cost of installing an ignition interlock device (IID) varies depending on the state, the company, and the vehicle type. The installation cost typically ranges from $70 to $170, with some companies charging up to $150. This is a one-time fee paid directly to the service center for installing the device in your vehicle. Some companies offer free installation or rebates in certain states.

In addition to the installation cost, there is a monthly lease cost for the IID, which typically ranges from $50 to $120 per month. The monthly cost may depend on factors such as the length of time you need the device, the specific model required by state law, and the frequency of compliance reporting. Some companies offer flexible payment options, such as monthly or bi-weekly payments.

It is important to note that you may also incur additional costs for calibration and maintenance of the IID. Calibration is usually required every 30, 60, or 90 days, depending on state requirements, and typically costs around $25 per calibration. Proper maintenance of the IID is essential, and failure to do so can result in legal consequences.

Some states offer financial assistance to customers who need help paying for their IID installation and lease. It is recommended to contact different companies and compare prices to find the best option for your specific situation.

IID insurance discounts

Whether or not having an ignition interlock device (IID) installed in your vehicle will affect your auto insurance rates depends on several factors. Firstly, it matters whether the IID installation is mandated by a court or state, or if it is a voluntary installation. If you've been convicted of driving under the influence (DUI), your auto insurance company will likely raise your rates, and the installation of an IID may not lead to a discount. Insurance companies view individuals with a DUI conviction as higher-risk drivers, and while an IID prevents you from operating your vehicle while intoxicated, it doesn't prevent you from attempting to drive another vehicle.

However, if the IID installation is voluntary, you may have a better chance of obtaining a car insurance discount. Auto insurance companies offer discounts for various safety features, and voluntarily installing an IID could be seen as a proactive measure to prevent drunk driving. It is worth contacting your insurance company to inquire about potential discounts, especially if you are installing an IID to prevent a teen family member from drinking and driving.

Additionally, if you were mandated to install an IID due to a DUI conviction but decide to keep it installed voluntarily after completing your restricted driving program, you may have a chance to negotiate a lower rate with your insurance company. While they may not offer a discount immediately, informing them of your decision to keep the IID could be viewed positively and potentially lead to a slight reduction in your rates over time.

It's important to note that insurance companies have the final say on whether they offer discounts, and the availability and amount of discounts can vary across companies and states. Therefore, it's always a good idea to shop around and compare quotes from different insurers to ensure you're getting the best deal.

IID effectiveness

The effectiveness of ignition interlock devices (IIDs) in preventing drunk driving is supported by research. The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) summarised multiple studies of ignition interlock use, stating:

> "Research provides strong evidence that, while installed on an offender’s vehicle, interlocks reduce recidivism among both first-time and repeat offenders. This includes high-risk offenders, i.e., those who repeatedly drive after drinking with high BACs, and are resistant to changing behaviour."

However, the NHTSA also notes that recidivism increases once the devices are removed. This suggests that the effectiveness of IIDs is dependent on their continued use.

The installation of an IID may also lead to reduced insurance rates. Insurance companies are aware of the research supporting the effectiveness of IIDs and may offer discounts to customers who have them installed. Therefore, it is worth asking your insurance company about potential discounts if you have an IID installed.

In addition to their effectiveness in preventing drunk driving, IIDs also serve as a form of electronic monitoring. The devices keep a record of the activity on the device and the interlocked vehicle's electrical system, which can be printed out or downloaded for review by authorities. This feature enhances the accountability of the driver and provides a means of tracking any violations.

Overall, the effectiveness of IIDs in preventing drunk driving and reducing recidivism among offenders is well-supported by research. However, their effectiveness may be limited if not used consistently over an extended period.

Frequently asked questions