WGEM.com: Quincy News, Weather, Sports, and RadioAdvocates say year old law is saving lives
Advocates say a year-old Illinois drunken driving law is saving countless lives statewide.
As of last Jan. 1, Illinois law requires first-time dui offenders to install a breathalyzer in their vehicles to keep driving. State and police officials say about 6,100 of the devices have been installed.
Before the law, about 3,000 Illinoisans with multiple dui's had the devices. The ignition interlocks prevent engines from starting until drivers blow into the alcohol detectors to prove they're sober.
The device also does periodic checks to keep drivers from getting someone else to blow for them to get the vehicle started. Susan McKinney is the program's director. She says putting the devices in for first-time offenders may keep them from driving drunk again.
