Interlock Facts

BAKERSFIELD, Calif. -- First time DUI offenders may have to install an interlock Breathalyzer device in their cars. The pending bill has many concerned on both sides of the issue.

The American Beverage Company is against the bill in California. They said it isn't addressing the real issue. Representatives from Mothers Against Drunk Driving said the Breathalyzer is just a Band-Aid. They said more has to be done through education.

The interlock Breathalyzer is a device, that when a driver gets into a car, the driver would have to blow into the device. If the device registers a blood alcohol level higher than .08 percent, the car will not start.

The device is already used by repeat offenders when ordered by courts.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the average DUI fatal crash occurs when the blood alcohol level is at .19 percent.

The American Beverage Institute said that a driver on a cell phone is more impaired than a driver who is under the influence at .08 percent.

Many people feel that first-time offenders might learn a lesson and not become a repeat offender, while others feel education is key.

Debbie Hess of Bakersfield said, “I think it's a good idea. Too many people get killed.”

Cindy Ayers also of Bakersfield said she doesn’t think anyone should get behind the wheel while drinking alcohol because lives are in danger.

Ann McCright who is a representative for MADD said, “We have to educate ourselves.”

A 120-pound woman can reach a blood alcohol level of .08 percent by having two glasses of wine within two hours. And the CHP said that even the use of the Breathalyzer is not fail safe.

Any sober person can blow into the device to start the car of an intoxicated driver.