The alcohol lock is a technical system built into your vehicle that requires you to blow into the mouthpiece before you can start the engine. Only if your breath analysis gives a negative result will the engine start. In Belgium, the police judge can impose the alcohol lock as an alternative to a complete driving ban. In this article, Novex Advocaten explains when the alcolock is imposed, the procedure and the costs.
When is the alcohol lock imposed?
Since the 2010 change in the law, the police judge can change the alcohol lock program impose it in cases of driving with a blood alcohol concentration of 1.2‰ or more (or 0.50 mg/l or more on the breath). The alcolock can also be imposed for repeat offenses or in combination with a driving ban. The judge retains broad discretion: the alcolock is not an automatic measure but one that he can, but does not have to, impose.
How does the alcohol lock procedure work?
If the judge imposes the alcohol lock, the procedure is as follows:
- Verdict: the police judge pronounces the alcohol lock in the sentence, along with the duration of the program (minimum 1 year).
- Medical and psychological examination: you must consult a licensed physician and psychologist who will assess your fitness to drive with the alcohol lock.
- Installation: a licensed installer will install the alcohol lock in your vehicle. This is at your expense.
- Driving with the alcohol lock: during the program, you will only drive the vehicle equipped with the alcohol lock. Any attempted fraud or circumvention will be recorded electronically.
- Follow-up: alcolock data is read and evaluated periodically.
- End of program: after the established period and upon positive evaluation, the alcohol lock may be removed.
What is the cost of the alcohol lock?
The cost of the alcohol interlock program is significant and falls entirely on the individual. Count on:
- Installation cost: ± 1,000 to 1,500 euros;
- Monthly rental cost: ± 100 to 150 euros;
- Readout and follow-up costs;
- Cost of medical and psychological examination.
Over a two-year program, this can add up to more than 5,000 euros.
Is the alcohol lock better than a complete driving ban?
For many people involved - especially those who depend on their licenses professionally - the alcohol lock is preferable to a complete driving ban. After all, you remain licensed to drive, albeit under strict conditions. An attorney can advocate for you to impose the alcohol lock as an alternative, or just argue why the circumstances of your case warrant a different measure.
Need assistance with an alcohol lock procedure?
Novex Advocaten has extensive experience in traffic law cases before the Brussels police court and advises you on the choice between driving ban and alcohol lock, the possibilities for contesting and the practical steps after the verdict.
Also read: Lawyer traffic law Brussels: driving ban and police court | Driving under the influence of drugs in Belgium