A recent story out of New York (on www.wivb.com) brought up an issue that some mechanics have run into while servicing vehicles that have ignition interlock devices installed in them. Ignition interlock devices require the driver to blow into the device in order to start the engine. If the blood alcohol level is too high, the engine will not start.

“But some mechanics are concerned about servicing interlock-equipped vehicles, because they have to blow into the same mouthpiece as the offender, just to start the engine up.”  [read the article]

Servicing a car sometimes causes concern for the Driver or the auto shop. If the car has to be frequently started for the repair it will show up on the data logger. The driver would supply mouthpieces for the mechanic. It usually is not a problem unless the mechanic's been drinking. If there is a question as to why there were frequent stops and starts, the driver may have to present the work order for the repairs. This most commonly happens when there is a battery change which is indicated as a power disconnect (Violation) on the data logger. In these cases, the driver would provide a copy of the work order, or if the driver installed the battery, a receipt for the parts may be required. Common sense applies - most people would not install a battery at 2:00 am on a Saturday night.

As drivers and mechanics become more familiar with the devices, these issues diminish.

Just part of growing pains.

Tom Manuel
Program Director, Driver Fitness
AAMVA