Drunk driving is a big problem. Each year, almost 11,000 people die on roadways as a result of accidents caused by drunk drivers. Because of the high incidence of crashes attributed to alcohol related impairment, authorities are taking steps to reduce the number of drunk drivers on the road.
Road blocks are a common scene in many communities. A road block is where the police actually block off a road way and check all motorists to see if they have been drinking. Those caught with over-the-limit blood alcohol content are then arrested. Not only is this a great way to catch drivers that are inebriated, and it is also a good way of deterring others from drinking and driving. According to statistics, the average drunk driver has driven drunk about 85 times before he or she is caught by law enforcement!
Alcohol Detection Methods
Law enforcement officers use different detectors to measure the blood alcohol content, or alcohol present in the blood. This can easily be done, as the breath can indicate the amount of alcohol present in the blood. Because of this, breathalyzers are most commonly used to measure the BAC by measuring the amount of alcohol present in a person’s breath.
A breathalyzer is a hand held device that can actually be used by law enforcement on site. Breathalyzers are expensive to maintain and use. In addition, they must be constantly checked to see that they are working properly. However, the results from a roadside breathalyzer test are admissible in court.
If you fail a breathalyzer test at the scene, chances are that you will be given additional tests to confirm that the results of the breathalyzer tests were valid. These additional tests will also be presented in court. This is because breathalyzer test results can be influenced by other environmental factors including paint, hair spray mouth wash, and even gasoline, as these items do contain alcohol.
Consequences of Driving While Intoxicated
Repeat offenders who continue to drink alcohol and drive may face severe consequences. These consequences can include a fine and jail time. Most drivers that have been caught driving drunk must take a driver’s safety course and attend alcohol counseling sessions. The court may also revoke a person’s license. However, over half of people with revoked licenses still drive.
Sometimes, the court may order a person to install a breathalyzer machine on his or her car. In order to start the car, the person must breathe into the machine which tests the blood alcohol content level. If the level is acceptable, the car will start. There are some problems with these machines as they can be overly sensitive. For example, some people find that they cannot start their car after using mouthwash in the morning. This is because mouthwash contains alcohol.
Conclusion
Drunk driving is very risky and dangerous for both the driver and for others on the road way. In order to prevent drunk driving, people should have a designated driver if they go out drinking. Many times, taxis and auto clubs offer free rides home for people who have had too much to drink. Check to see if programs like this exist in your area.
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