There is a long list of consequences that you have to deal with after a driving under the influence (DUI) arrest in Kentucky. First and foremost, you may have to spend the night in jail. You will then have to deal with criminal charges and the likely suspension of your license immediately after your arrest.
After a conviction or guilty plea, you could have to complete a term of incarceration, complete alcohol or substance abuse treatment, pay fines, or even install an ignition interlock device (IID) in your vehicle.
An IID is a chemical testing tool installed in your vehicle that will prevent you from driving it if you cannot first pass a chemical breath test. You may also have to perform tests sporadically while you drive to prevent a driver with a DUI on their record from having a friend, co-worker or family member blow into the device just to start the car. If you face a DUI charge, will you have to install an IID in your vehicle?
Installing an IID lets you keep your license
Although some states only require the installation of an IID in a vehicle after multiple DUI convictions, Kentucky has integrated IIDs into their program for people trying to get their licenses back. Installing an IID is essentially an alternative to losing your license for an extended period of time.
First-time offenders will need to decide between suspension of their license for six months or participation in an ignition interlock program for four months. A second offense means an 18-month suspension or 12 months with an IID in your vehicle. Third offenses can mean three years without a license or 18 months with an IID, while fourth offenses carry a 60-month suspension or a 30-month IID program requirement.
IIDs come with a cost, but they help you retain your freedom
You have to pay to install an IID in your vehicle and also to occasionally maintain or calibrate it. You can expect that your insurance costs will drastically rise while you are participating in an IID program after an impaired driving conviction.
However, given the unreliability of rideshare or public transportation options, retaining your license may be the only workable solution for keeping your life normal after a DUI conviction.