A family drunk driving tragedy inspired John Ruocco to dream up of an ignition interlock system in order to stop drunk driving.
Years before he was even born, about 80 years ago, John Ruocco's 16-year-old uncle was struck and killed by a drunk driver. As he grew up hearing about the incident, detailed in a profile of John Ruocco by ABC News, he vowed to do something to prevent drunk driving:
"They always talked about this young man, what a nice person he was, and what a horrible death he suffered. That kind of stayed with me. I got into the business and developed this technology."
Now 62 years old, the founder and CEO of Interceptor Ignition Interlocks Inc. can say with certainty that he's made good on his promise. And ironically, you have John Ruocco to thank (maybe even as much as your Chicago DUI lawyer) for the option of driving with an ignition interlock system after a DUI conviction.
John Ruocco's interlock device improves on early models of in-car breathalyzers, which require the driver to blow into the device and prove their sobriety before the ignition will turn. His Interceptor devices test drivers randomly while they drive, can send unfavorable BAC results to 911 dispatchers and even uses a tiny camera to prevent drivers from gaming the system with a sober passenger.
But the experienced technology entrepreneur did his homework before designing his interlock devices; speaking with judges, probation officers, police, prosecutors and anyone who could help him understand the shortcomings of previous versions of interlock devices.
John Ruocco concluded that there were no improvements to the breathalyzer technology since its inception in 1975. He hired and engineer, invested his own money and also secured some capital from his sister to create a prototype and get the ball rolling. He said his company has raised about $1.5 million total and that 450 units are currently deployed.
However, DUIs can happen to anyone, even if you have the best technology. If you need help with a DUI charge, it may be best to speak with a Chicago DUI lawyer.
Related Resources:
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State Officials: Interlock Ignition DUI Law is Working (FindLaw's KnowledgeBase)
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Contact a Chicago DUI Attorney (FindLaw)
