digital breathalysers

Sgt_Pepper_2

Yorkie1 wrote: »

That's to allow mouth alcohol to dissipate.

I don't know whether the DIY ones are designed to remove that element - but I suppose that as they are intended to be a guide, rather than used in a court of law, there is not the need for the type approval and strict regulation / calibration of the police machines.

The police road side machines are just a guide and can't be used in court.

fivetide

Sgt_Pepper wrote: »

The police road side machines are just a guide and can't be used in court.

Exactly.

that's why they have to take you to the station to be properly tested on the machine or given a blood test.

If you are buying one of these and you occasionally rive abroad make sure it is valid for use in France since you now have to carry a breathalyser in your car (technically you should carry two disposable ones in case you use one)

5t.

rev_henry

spiro wrote: »

I dont know with these machines but with the ones the Police use you have to wait 20min after your last drink before they test you.

Mine also says wait 20 mins after smoking or drinking, and suggests a glass of water first.

arcon5

Wanton wrote: »

Isn't it the other way round? If caught in charge you have to prove your intention not to drive?

Wouldn't that go against the whole 'innocent until proven guilty' malarkey.

Wanton

arcon5 wrote: »

Wouldn't that go against the whole 'innocent until proven guilty' malarkey.

You would think so but see the following website - http://www.drinkdrivinglaw.co.uk/offences/in_charge_of_a_vehicle_with_excess_alcohol.htm

And specifically the FAQ -

What if I was in my car on my driveway having a cigarette trying to keep warm and I had no intention of driving?

There is no need for the prosecution to prove that a person was likely to drive whilst unfit or over the limit. It is for the Defendant to prove that there is no prospect of using the vehicle.