Alaska adds additional penalties for DUIs

  • Published
  • By 1st Lt. Frank Hartnett
  • 354th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
EIELSON AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska --  Alaska has joined the growing trend of states across the country levying additional penalties to deter driving under the influence. 

The legislature recently passed a law which now requires drivers with a DUI conviction or who refuse a breathalyzer test to install ignition interlocks on their vehicles. 

"First time violators will have the interlock installed in their car for one year," said Ms. Renner Eberlein, Assistant District Attorney, 4th Judicial District. "The interlock requirement will also apply to drivers who refuse to take a breathalyzer test." 

The new law, which took effect at the beginning of the year, adds more cost to an already expensive crime of poor judgment. The required equipment is an additional financial liability for a driver facing already hefty fines. Drivers can expect to pay at least $100 to install the equipment, $125 for a monthly equipment lease and $50 to reset the equipment for test failures. This is in addition to court fees, financial penalties, registration fees, assigned-risk insurance, license suspension and 72 hours in jail for a first offense. 

The driver must blow into the interlock device before driving. If the driver is intoxicated the device will register the failed test as a violation of probation; if the driver is clean, the car will start. The driver must re-test every 15 to 30 minutes while the vehicle is being operated to ensure sobriety. 

The interlock is more than just a failsafe device to prevent drunk driving. Current devices are designed to document and store the activities of a driver and are reviewed by the manufacture. Failed tests or discrepancies can cause additional legal issues for drivers who fail to obey the law. Furthermore, allowing another person to test on the interlock device will result in additional charges and fines. 

"Alaska and the Air Force continue to send a clear message," said Capt. Sarah Tasker, 354th Fighter Wing assistant staff judge advocate. "Driving under the influence is dangerous and drivers who break the law and risk lives will be dealt appropriate punishment."