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French Making In-Car Breathalyzers Mandatory

Drivers without self-testing kit to be fined

By Rob Quinn,  Newser Staff

Posted Feb 21, 2012 5:52 AM CST

(Newser) – The French are taking one more excuse away from drunk drivers. Starting this spring, all motorists will be required to have a breathalyzer in their car so that if they have consumed alcohol, they can make sure they're not over the limit before they get behind the wheel, the Daily Mail reports. Drivers found without a $2 single-use kit in their car will be fined $23. Road deaths in France have halved over the last decade to around 4,000 a year, and President Nicolas Sarkozy has promised to get the rate below 3,000 this year.

In-car breathalyzers may become compulsory across Europe if the French plan is a success.
In-car breathalyzers may become compulsory across Europe if the French plan is a success.   (Shutterstock)
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COMMENTS
Showing 3 of 12 comments
DavidSmith
Mar 4, 2012 4:16 AM CST
Looks like they are now sold in the UK with a coupole of sites called Breathalyser Direct and UK Breathalyzer Shop (google uk). Running low already !
plain_speaking
Feb 21, 2012 9:31 AM CST
Sounds a little excessive...yet we need to consider the lowest common denominator.......they french are getting results....and not only does it save the victims of drunk driving, but it saves the lives of the potential perpetrator who would have to live with the guilt.
Deleted
Feb 21, 2012 8:10 AM CST
Blow up a balloon while sober.  Go drink your brains out.  Have your balloon take the breathalyzer test.  Sounds defeatable for people that want to get around the law.
 

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