So You Want to Install a Breathalyzer in Your Car? The Interlock Chronicles of Pennsylvania (Hold the Beer)
Let's face it, nobody wakes up one morning and thinks, "Gee, I can't wait to get a car breathalyzer installed!" But if you've found yourself on the wrong side of a DUI in Pennsylvania, an Ignition Interlock System (IIS) might be your ticket back to driving freedom (well, sort of). But before you dive headfirst into sobriety tests on the go, a question likely burns brighter than your car's high beams: how much does this contraption cost?
The Short Answer (Because Let's Be Honest, You Skimmed Right Here):
It ain't cheap, but it's probably less than a year of Ubers. We're talking ballpark figures of $1000 to $1400 per year.
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The Long (and Slightly More Interesting) Answer: Think of an IIS like a fancy car accessory, except it prevents DUIs instead of making your ride look like a disco ball. Since it's leased, not purchased, the cost depends on a few factors:
QuickTip: Check if a section answers your question.
- The Vendor You Choose: Shop around! Different companies offer different packages with varying monthly fees and installation costs.
- The Length of Your Interlock Sentence: The longer you need the device, the more it'll cost overall. Buckle up (safely, of course) for the long haul.
- Fancy Features (Because Why Not?): Some systems boast bells and whistles like cameras and GPS. These can add to the monthly price tag, but hey, maybe the camera will catch your amazing parallel parking skills?
Pro Tip: Don't forget about the installation fee and monthly monitoring charges. These can add another $100-$150 on top of the base price.
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But Wait, There's More! (Because There Always Is) The good news? An IIS might be cheaper than the financial and emotional toll of another DUI. Plus, you get the satisfaction of knowing you're doing your part for road safety (and avoiding those awkward "Hey, is that your car?" moments from your designated driver friends).
Tip: Keep your attention on the main thread.
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How to Become an Interlock Installation Rockstar: FAQ
You've got questions, we've (hopefully) got answers. Here's a quick rundown on becoming an IIS installation pro:
- How to Choose a Vendor? Do your research! Check online reviews, compare prices, and see what features each company offers.
- How Long Will I Need the Interlock? This depends on your specific DUI offense. Consult your lawyer or the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) for details.
- How Much Does Installation Cost? Installation fees typically range from $70 to $150.
- How Much are Monthly Monitoring Charges? Expect to pay around $80 to $100 per month.
- How Do I Get the Interlock Removed? Once your interlock period is over, contact your vendor for removal. They'll likely charge a small fee for this too.
So there you have it! The not-so-glamorous world of car breathalyzers. Remember, installing an IIS is an investment in your future (and your driving privileges). Now go forth, conquer those sobriety tests, and hit the road responsibly!
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