Avoiding False Positives on Your Interlock Device

If you’ve been convicted of a DUI in Washington State, you may be required to install an interlock device in your vehicle. This device ensures that you’re sober before allowing you to start your car. However, there are certain foods and substances that can potentially cause a false positive on your interlock device. Understanding these can help you avoid unnecessary complications.

Sugary Foods

Donuts, sweet rolls, and chocolate might be tempting, but consuming them can cause a very small amount of alcohol to be detected by your interlock device. This is because the sugars in these foods can ferment slightly, creating trace amounts of alcohol. Fortunately, this alcohol dissipates quickly—usually within three minutes. To prevent a false positive, wait a few minutes after eating sugary treats and rinse your mouth with water before taking the test. Avoid mouthwashes, as many contain alcohol.

Fruit and Fruit Drinks

Fruits and fruit-based beverages can sometimes ferment in your mouth, producing alcohol that might be detected by the interlock device. This is more likely with drinks containing real fruit. After consuming fruit or fruit-based drinks, wait a few minutes and rinse your mouth thoroughly with water to minimize the risk of a false positive.

Spicy Foods

Spicy foods can lead to the production of methane gas in your stomach. This gas can potentially be misinterpreted by the interlock device as alcohol, resulting in a false positive. To avoid this, try to avoid spicy foods right before you need to use your interlock device.

Vinegar

Vinegar, especially if derived from wine, can contain trace amounts of alcohol. If you’ve had a meal with vinegar, such as a salad with a vinegar-based dressing, be aware that any residual vinegar in your mouth might cause a false positive. Rinse your mouth with water before testing.

Energy Drinks

Some energy drinks, despite being labeled “alcohol-free,” can contain small amounts of alcohol or sugar alcohols. Always check the label and be cautious of energy drinks if you’re required to use an interlock device.

Vanilla Extract

It may surprise you, but vanilla extract can contain up to 35% alcohol. Even a small amount used in baking can potentially affect your interlock device. If you’re baking, make sure that any residual vanilla extract is thoroughly rinsed from your mouth before testing.

Mouthwash and Breath Sprays

Many mouthwashes and breath sprays contain alcohol, which can trigger a false positive on your interlock device. Avoid using these products immediately before testing. Instead, opt for alcohol-free mouth rinses if needed.

Certain Diets

Some diets, especially those involving high levels of acetone or ketogenic diets, can lead to elevated acetone levels in your body. Acetone can sometimes be misread as alcohol by the interlock device. If you’re on a specific diet, consult with your healthcare provider to ensure it won’t interfere with your interlock device.

If you have any concerns or need further clarification about managing your interlock device, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at the Law Office of Erin Bradley McAleer. We’re here to help you navigate these challenges and ensure you stay on the right track. Call us today at (360) 334-6277.

Avoiding False Positives on Your Interlock Device

If you’ve been required to install an interlock device in your vehicle due to a DUI conviction in Washington State, be aware that certain foods and substances can trigger false positives. Sugary foods, fruit drinks, spicy foods, vinegar, and even some energy drinks can cause trace amounts of alcohol to be detected. Vanilla extract and mouthwashes, which often contain alcohol, should also be avoided before testing. Additionally, certain diets that increase acetone levels can be mistaken for alcohol. For more guidance on managing your interlock device and avoiding false positives, contact the Law Office of Erin Bradley McAleer at (360) 334-6277. We’re here to help you navigate these challenges.