Why You Should Own a Personal Breathalyzer

The Importance of Personal Breathalyzers

Ensuring Legal Compliance

A personal breathalyzer can be a crucial tool for anyone who wants to make sure they are not over the legal alcohol limit after a night out. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), nearly 30 people in the United States die in drunk-driving crashes every day, which equates to one person every 50 minutes source. By using a personal breathalyzer, you can avoid contributing to these statistics and ensure you are driving safely.

Beneficial for Those with Legal Histories

For individuals who have had previous legal issues related to alcohol, a personal breathalyzer can be a lifesaver. In many states, a second DUI offense can lead to severe penalties, including longer license suspensions and even jail time. For example, in California, a second DUI offense can result in a two-year license suspension source. Having a personal breathalyzer can help you avoid these harsh consequences.

Peace of Mind for Regular Drinkers

For those who enjoy drinking regularly, a personal breathalyzer offers peace of mind. It allows you to check your blood alcohol content (BAC) before deciding to drive. This can prevent you from making a potentially life-altering mistake. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), drivers with a BAC of 0.08% or higher are involved in about one-third of all traffic crash fatalities in the United States source.

Practical Uses for Personal Breathalyzers

For Small Bar Owners

Small bar owners can benefit from having a personal breathalyzer on hand for their customers. This can help ensure that patrons who are over the legal limit do not drive, thereby reducing the risk of legal repercussions for the establishment. According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), approximately 40% of all traffic fatalities involve alcohol source. By providing a way for customers to check their BAC, bar owners can contribute to reducing these numbers.

For Social Gatherings

At social gatherings, a personal breathalyzer can be a fun and responsible way to ensure everyone stays safe. It can help friends hold each other accountable and make informed decisions about driving. According to a study published in the Journal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs, social drinkers often underestimate their BAC levels, which can lead to dangerous situations source.

Cost vs. Benefits

Affordability

Personal breathalyzers are relatively inexpensive, especially when compared to the potential costs of a DUI. The average cost of a DUI in the United States can range from $10,000 to $25,000 when you factor in fines, legal fees, and increased insurance rates source. In contrast, a high-quality personal breathalyzer can be purchased for as little as $50 to $150.

Ease of Use

Using a personal breathalyzer is straightforward. Most devices require you to blow into a tube until you hear a beep, and then you wait for your results. This simplicity makes it easy for anyone to use, ensuring that you can quickly and accurately check your BAC before making any decisions about driving.

Conclusion

Owning a personal breathalyzer is a small investment that can have significant benefits. It provides peace of mind, helps ensure legal compliance, and can even save lives. Whether you're a regular drinker, a bar owner, or someone with a history of alcohol-related legal issues, a personal breathalyzer is a valuable tool to have on hand.

By taking this simple step, you can protect yourself, your loved ones, and others on the road. Make the responsible choice and consider adding a personal breathalyzer to your safety toolkit today.