Evaluation of the New Mexico Ignition Interlock Program

Marques, Paul R.; Voas, Robert B.; Roth, Richard; Tippetts, A. Scott · 2010 · ROSA P / United States. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Office of Behavioral Safety Research

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Summary

This report evaluates the New Mexico Ignition Interlock Program, analyzing its legislative evolution from 1999 to 2005 and its impact on driving under the influence (DWI) recidivism. Motivated by the need to assess the effectiveness of mandatory interlock laws and licensing acts, the study aims to determine how these interventions reduce impaired driving among both first-time and repeat offenders. The evaluation covers data from August 2004 to November 2008, sponsored by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The research employs a mixed-methods design comprising eight distinct studies. Quantitative analyses utilized administrative data from the Motor Vehicle Department, the New Mexico Traffic Safety Bureau, and interlock providers, including over 10 million breath tests. The study design involved constructing matched comparison groups of non-interlock offenders to isolate the effects of interlock installation. Specific analyses included Cox regression models to assess recidivism rates during interlock use and after removal, as well as survival curve analyses for first-time offenders. Qualitative components included interviews with key informants (judges, prosecutors, defense attorneys, and probation officers) and focus groups with DWI offenders to gather perspectives on program administration and user experience. Key findings indicate that ignition interlocks significantly reduce recidivism while the devices are installed. For multiple offenders, recidivism rates were substantially lower during the interlock period compared to matched non-interlock offenders, though rates increased after device removal. First-time offenders also demonstrated reduced rearrest rates during the interlock-on period. The Ignition Interlock Licensing Act, which allowed revoked offenders to drive with an interlock, showed effectiveness in reducing recidivism relative to unbiased comparison groups. In Santa Fe County, a strong mandate requiring interlocks or electronic monitoring led to high installation rates and further reductions in recidivism. Analysis of breath-test patterns revealed that elevated blood alcohol concentration (BAC) tests occurred primarily during late-night and early-morning hours, particularly on weekends. Predictors of recidivism included prior DWI history and drinking patterns recorded by the interlock. Qualitative data highlighted administrative challenges but generally positive perceptions of the device’s accuracy and deterrent effect among offenders. The study concludes that New Mexico’s mandatory interlock laws and licensing provisions are effective tools for reducing DWI recidivism, particularly when combined with strict enforcement and high installation rates. The findings support the broader national effort to mitigate impaired-driving injuries and deaths. The report identifies areas for improvement, such as addressing circumvention behaviors and enhancing program administration, suggesting that sustained legislative support and rigorous monitoring are essential for maximizing the program’s long-term efficacy.

Key finding

Ignition interlock devices significantly reduced recidivism rates for both first-time and repeat DWI offenders during the period the devices were installed in their vehicles.

Methodology

naturalistic

Provenance

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Summary generated by qwen3.6-27b-prismaquant on 2026-06-10; verification: verified.

Topics

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• alcohol detection systems
• dui enforcement