1.7 million attempted drunk drivers stopped from ignition interlocks

A report finds more than 1.7 million attempts to drive drunk have been stopped by ignition interlocks in the U.S. since states began using them.

Ignition interlock devices are installed in the cars of convicted drunk drivers to stop them from starting their cars if it reads a dangerous level of alcohol in their system.

The group Mothers Against Drunk Driving (“MADD”) released the report Wednesday afternoon in Annapolis. 11 major companies across the county helped to compile this data.

This report is fuel for advocates trying to push for Maryland lawmakers to require these devices for drunk drivers convicted of driving with a blood alcohol content level of 0.08 or greater.    

The law currently requires the devices for drivers convicted with a BAC of 0.15, which is nearly twice the legal limit.

Lieutenant Brian Swafford of the Fruitland Police Departmand says he would support the change but admits there may be a cost factor.

“There’s going to be some detractors that say that it’s a money maker, this that and the other but, we all know MADD’s not in the business of making money.” Says Lieutenant Swafford. “They’re trying to save some lives and I think that’s the way it needs to be looked at.”

The proposed measure is being called “Noah’s Law” in honor of a Maryland officer killed in December by a suspected drunk driver.