New DWI law goes into place August 15th

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) - The second phase of a law designed to protect children from drunk drivers goes into place this weekend.

On August 15th, New York State becomes the tenth state to require drivers to install breathalyzer devices on their cars after their first conviction for drunk driving.

A host of law enforcement officials turned out Wednesday at the offices of Mothers Against Drunk Driving and O'Brien, Boyd attorneys to show how the device works. Representatives of Ignition Interlock of Erie County showed the steps required to start your car if you've been convicted of DWI.

The official explained, "So it's ready for a test right now, and this is the proper procedure you're supposed to follow. (Blows into device.) I gave it the sample and I have a clean breath so the light is green, and I have four minutes to start the car. So I'm good to go and the car starts."

This device is installed at the driver's expense, and it is leased at a charge of $70 to $110 a month. The minimum requirement is six months. Again, this law takes effect starting Sunday.