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Ignition interlocks, which keep drunken drivers from starting their cars, are proven to reduce alcohol-related fatal crashes. But in central Ohio, the majority of first-time offenders aren’t using them, attorneys say.

Deaths caused by drunken drivers have dropped in 15 states, including West Virginia, that require all drunken driving offenders to install the devices in their cars, research shows. But local prosecutors and attorneys who defend accused drunken drivers say judges haven’t embraced the devices and defendants are reluctant to use them.

Steve Rupe, an Ohio territory manager for interlock manufacturer Intoxalock, estimated that 3,000 interlocks are in use in Ohio, including devices made by other manufacturers.

“The overwhelming majority [of my clients] have chosen to not get that”, Columbus defense attorney Benjamin said of interlocks.

Suspected drunken drivers in Ohio have their licenses automatically suspended for 15 to 30 days following their arrest. But first-time offenders can ask to put an interlock in their cars in exchange for unlimited driving privileges after that time.

The devices connect a breath alcohol detector to a car’s ignition that won’t let drivers start the car unless they pass a breath test. A judge would have to approve the trade-off, however.

“It really hasn’t been a question whether people want to take the option or not, it just really hasn’t been brought up,” Marysville Assistant Prosecutor John Eufinger said. “I don’t find that defense attorneys are requesting that direction.”

Judges in Ohio seem reluctant to grant driving privileges to accused drunken drivers, Columbus defense attorney Tim Huey said, even with the interlock devices.

“I would say that 80 percent of the judges in the state won’t do that,” Huey said.

Generally, it comes down to whether or not a judge is willing to let someone drive freely after they’ve had a few drinks and gotten behind the wheel, Lancaster City Prosecutor Randall Ullom said.

“I wouldn’t say it’s common,” he said. “I’m guessing it’s not something that occurs on a regular basis.”

Drivers, meanwhile, are also hesitant to use interlocks, attorneys said.

“It’s embarrassing to have a breath test machine in your car,” Columbus defense attorney Benjamin Luftman said. “And there’s the cost.”

The interlocks cost between $70 and $100 to install, and drivers are required to lease them for between $60 and $90 per month.

By Lokesh