The State’s DUI laws just got stricter the bill signed by the governor will essentially force convicted drunk drivers to pass a breathalyzer every time they start their car.

The device which is mounted on the dash of a car requires the driver to blow into a breathalyzer, before they can start their vehicle.

"It’s is not going to solve the problem, but it is definitely a helpful tool for law enforcement officers," said Dothan PIO Rachel David.

Under the new law first time DUI offenders will be required to install the device if they injured someone, had a BAC of .15 or higher, refused to provide a blood alcohol content or had a child under the age of 14 in the car at the time of arrest. Lt. Todd David of Dothan PD’s Traffic Division hopes the device will stop some of the city's repeat offenders.

"Unfortunately we do see a lot of repeat offenders in the city of Dothan hopefully this Interlock tool, will be another tool in out arsenal to combat DUI," comment Lt. David.

Already this year alcohol played a part in more than 40 accidents.

"Last month alone 5 DUI’s were involved in accident and of those five, four had injuries," said Sgt. David.

In Alabama there are more than 82,000 people with three or more DUI convictions, Sergeant David believes the new mandate is a good start to fixing the problem.

"It’s a wonderful law, certainly it is not going to take the place of other programs such as educational programs, to help people who have been involved in DUI’s get the education they need to make better decisions in the future," commented Sgt. David.

Now the Interlock system is not cheap. It is $350 to install, and carries a monthly cost of 75 bucks. First time offenders will have the device installed for 2 years, after a 90 day suspension of their license.