In France, drunk driving causes more than 1,000 deaths per year in traffic accidents. Therefore, since July 2012, drivers and motorcyclists have been required to carry a personal breathalyzer in their vehicle to measure their blood alcohol content. However, this measure has proven ineffective. Consequently, authorities decided to abandon this requirement on May 22, 2020, in order to strengthen road safety and the highway code.
What exactly is a breathalyzer?
A breathalyzer, also known as an alcohol tester, is a device that measures the blood alcohol level. This is done by measuring the amount of alcohol in exhaled air. It should not be confused with an alcohol ignition interlock device, which is a tool used specifically in legal proceedings, or with an ignition interlock device. Breathalyzers are not only intended for drivers or law enforcement. Indeed, the risk of causing a fatal accident increases 20 times for a drunk driver, explains this website, institutadios.com, a specialist in alcohol withdrawal. Therefore, since the beginning of July 2021, establishments serving alcoholic beverages, such as nightclubs, bars, and restaurants, have been required to sell breathalyzers. What are the different types of breathalyzers?Today, several types of breathalyzers are available on the market:
Chemical Breathalyzer
The chemical breathalyzer works through a chemical reaction between the alcohol in exhaled air and other substances. This is the most common type of breathalyzer because, firstly, it is inexpensive, and secondly, it is easy to use. However, it is a device intended for single use only.
- Electronic Breathalyzer
The electronic breathalyzer offers greater accuracy than a chemical breathalyzer. It is primarily intended to serve as evidence in legal proceedings. This device requires technical verification at least once a year. Ignition Interlock Device (IID)
- The IID is mandatory for drivers found to have a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) exceeding 0.8 g/L. Its purpose is to prevent drivers with a BAC exceeding the legal limit from getting behind the wheel.
- What are the effects of alcohol on driving?
Alcohol and driving cause several problems. According to the website salon-pts.com, just one alcoholic drink is enough to produce these effects. A high BAC reduces a driver’s concentration and alertness. It can also slow reflexes and reaction time. Speeding is also one of the most common consequences of driving under the influence. It’s important to remember that speeding is the leading cause of fatal accidents in France. Finally, it’s crucial to remember that alcohol can cause blurred vision, as well as fatigue and drowsiness. As a result, drivers may fail to notice signals such as headlights or pedestrian crossings.
