The chemical or electronic breathalyzer

A breathalyzer is a device used to test your blood alcohol concentration (BAC). The device indicates the alcohol content in your exhaled breath. A quick reminder for those who passed their driving test a long time ago (and for young people too, there are no exceptions): a BAC of 0.25 milligrams per liter or higher is punishable and results in a driving ban.

Breathalyzers purchased must be valid until their expiration date and bear the seller’s certification mark.

Types of Breathalyzers: Chemical or Electronic

There are two types: chemical or electronic. Chemical breathalyzers cost on average between 1 and 2 euros and can be purchased in all major supermarkets, pharmacies, gas stations, and online. Electronic breathalyzers, which may be more reliable, cost at least €100 and can be purchased at auto centers and online. Furthermore, when installed by professionals, they have an anti-theft device. Electronic breathalyzersInstructions for using breathalyzers.

Simply blow into the device and wait for the color of the crystals to change. If the crystals are yellow, the test is negative. If the crystals turn green, the test is positive: your blood alcohol level is above the legal limit, and you are not allowed to drive.Be aware, however, that this test can be inaccurate. Nothing is more effective, at least in the eyes of law enforcement, than a test performed during a roadside check. So keep your breathalyzer handy in case you’re stopped and the result is different from yours. (As an aside, I went to a wine festival this summer, and when I blew into the balloon distributed at the party, I was right on the borderline, without exceeding the limit. During the roadside check, I tested completely negative, so much so that the officer even asked me if I’d been drinking—which I had.) Remember one thing: breathalyzers save lives! And if we all take the trouble to keep one in our cars, it could save lives outside clubs and at parties with friends. Finally, one last thing: whether you’re 18, 40, or 70, designate a designated driver, or don’t drink too much at a party. More information is available in the images below. Source: Frequently Asked Questions about Breathalyzers (Road Safety)Mandatory Breathalyzer Test: What the Law Says