Planning a road trip with an interlock device might seem challenging, but it doesn’t mean your travel dreams have to come to a screeching halt. If you’re yearning to escape the shadow of Pikes Peak for a few days, you might be wondering if it’s even possible with an interlock device installed in your car. The answer is yes, absolutely! With some thoughtful planning, preparation, and knowing what to expect, you can enjoy the freedom of the open road despite your interlock device.
Pitstop Interlock understands the unique challenges of taking a road trip with an interlock and offers reliable equipment with fast warm-up times and user-friendly designs. Our compassionate team provides comprehensive support before, during, and after your journey, ensuring you can navigate this chapter of your life with dignity while still enjoying your travels.
Practical Tips for Road Tripping with an Interlock
Pack Smart for Comfort and Compliance
When you’re on a road trip with an interlock, you need to be mindful of what you consume shortly before testing. Some foods and drinks can cause false positives on your interlock device.
Items to avoid shortly before testing include:
- Certain breads and pastries with active yeast
- Fermented foods like kombucha or some types of hot sauce
- Mouthwash containing alcohol
- Sugar-free gum
- Energy drinks
Instead, pack snacks like trail mix, fresh fruit, or chips. If you do consume something potentially problematic, rinse your mouth thoroughly with water and wait 15 minutes before your next test.
Plan for Weather Extremes
Extreme temperatures will affect the operation of your device when on a road trip with an interlock. In freezing weather, the device might take longer to warm up and be ready for testing. In the summer heat, the device might become too hot to touch.
Here are some weather-related tips:
- In winter, keep a small blanket in the car to cover the device when parked for extended periods.
- During summer road trips, use a windshield sunshade when parked.
- Allow extra warm-up time when starting your vehicle in extremely cold conditions, especially if you’re heading to higher-elevation destinations.
Know Your Maintenance Schedule
Your interlock device requires regular service appointments, typically every 30 to 60 days. If your road trip will extend beyond your next scheduled maintenance date, contact your provider before leaving.
At Pitstop Interlock, we understand travel happens. We’ve partnered with Nationwide Smart Start to give you access to over 1800 additional maintenance locations to accommodate your travel plans. Nothing ruins a relaxing trip faster than taking a road trip with an interlock and realizing your device is due for maintenance.
Read Also: How Often Do I Have to Get My Interlock Calibrated?
Crossing State Lines on a Road Trip with an Interlock
Interstate Travel Is Allowed
Your Colorado interlock requirements remain valid across state lines because the legal requirement to drive with an interlock device follows you, not the geography.
When traveling between states, keep your documentation handy, including your restricted license and any paperwork related to your interlock program. If you’re pulled over in another state, law enforcement may not be familiar with Colorado’s specific requirements. Having your interlock documentation readily available can save you time and stress.
Different States, Different Rules
While interstate travel is permitted, be aware that each state has slightly different laws regarding DUI offenses. Some states may have stricter BAC thresholds or different consequences for violating these limits. Before planning your multi-state adventure, it’s worth researching the specific laws of any states you’ll be visiting and verify your trip with your DUI attorney.
For example, if you’re heading to Utah, remember that they have a lower BAC limit (0.05%) than Colorado. Different BAC laws won’t affect your interlock device’s settings, but it’s good to have this information on a road trip with an interlock.
Strategies for a Long-Distance Road Trip with an Interlock
Multi-Day Journeys
For extended trips, like heading from Colorado Springs to Mesa Verde National Park, plan your route with interlock considerations in mind.
Your interlock device draws power from your vehicle’s battery. On an extended road trip with an interlock, especially if you’re camping or stopping for multiple days, be mindful of your battery’s charge. If your vehicle sits unused for several days, the interlock might drain enough power to cause issues.
Sharing Driving Responsibilities
If you’re traveling with friends or family members on a road trip with an interlock, remember that they cannot start the car for you. Every start will require your breath sample, but authorized drivers will be able to drive your vehicle after you’ve provided the initial sample.
For marathon drives across the country, this can be a handy arrangement. You handle the starts and initial retests, then switch drivers to maintain compliance with your interlock.
Read Also: FAQ: Can Someone Else Drive Your Car With an Interlock?
Handling Common Road Trip Challenges
What If My Device Malfunctions Far From Home?
It’s rare, but devices can occasionally experience issues. If you’re enjoying the scenic views near Rampart Reservoir or venturing further to places like Buena Vista when your device seems to malfunction, don’t panic.
First, try the basics:
- Turn off your vehicle completely.
- Wait a few minutes.
- Restart and try again.
If problems persist on your road trip with an interlock, call your service provider’s emergency support line. At Pitstop Interlock, we offer 24/7 support for situations just like this. We can often talk you through troubleshooting steps or direct you to the nearest service location if needed.
Dealing with Rolling Retest Failures
Maybe you had an energy drink right before a test, or perhaps you just ate something with natural fermentation. Whatever the cause, a failed test during your journey can be a stressful experience.
Don’t forget that a single failed test is not necessarily a violation of your program. Modern interlock devices are designed to allow you to do rolling retests after a brief waiting period.
If you fail a test, you should:
- Safely pull over when possible
- Take a few deep breaths of fresh Colorado air
- Rinse your mouth with water if available
- Wait the required time (usually 5-10 minutes)
- Take the retest
See Also: What to Do if You Fail an Interlock Breath Test
The Silver Lining: Unexpected Benefits
Going on a road trip with an interlock might initially seem like just another hurdle, but many Colorado drivers report some unexpected benefits:
- Taking more frequent breaks means you’ll actually stop and appreciate viewpoints you might have driven past without noticing.
- The regular testing schedule helps combat drowsy driving on long stretches of road.
- You may discover more local gems as you pull over for retests in small towns.
Mandatory stops might lead you to discover that perfect little café in Salida or a hidden viewpoint of the Sangre de Cristo mountains that most tourists speed right past.
Don’t Let Your DUI Hold You Back: Get Out There and Take A Road Trip with an Interlock from Pitstop
Having an interlock device in your vehicle is temporary, but the memories you’ll make on your Colorado road trips will last a lifetime. Whether you’re heading to a Rockies game in Denver, exploring the ancient dwellings at Mesa Verde, or enjoying a weekend getaway to the Western Slope’s wine country, you can take a road trip with an interlock without ruining your experience.
With proper planning and the right support from Pitstop Interlock, you can enjoy the freedom of the open road while fulfilling your legal obligations.
Ready to hit the road with confidence? Get in touch with Pitstop Interlock today for interlock installation or questions. Our team of compassionate professionals will answer all your questions and help prepare you for your adventure ahead!