The role of self-test breathalysers in tackling drunk driving

Drunk driving statistics paint a grim picture, and the risk of accidents and fatalities escalates d... 

By Rhys Evans, managing director at ALCO-Safe

OPINION | THE Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality’s Traffic Services is taking a commendable step towards safer roads with its targeted road safety programme. This initiative, which integrates education and self-testing breathalysers at major taxi ranks in Gqeberha, signifies a shift towards promoting responsible driving habits. However, the programme’s long-term effectiveness will rely on two critical aspects: accessibility to testing, and most importantly, education on the subject matter in order for motorists to truly understand and compute the risks associated with drinking and driving.

A multi-faceted approach

Drunk driving statistics paint a grim picture, and the risk of accidents and fatalities escalates dramatically when drivers are under the influence. Therefore, a comprehensive approach is vital to curbing this problem. The introduction of self-administered breathalysers in the Nelson Mandela Bay metropolitan area is intended to empower taxi drivers to make informed choices about their sobriety before getting behind the wheel.

This self-testing mechanism is a positive step, but more is needed: greater accessibility and enhanced education. In terms of accessibility, a wider availability of self-test breathalysers at strategic locations beyond taxi ranks would significantly enhance the programme’s reach. Placement in parking areas of bars, restaurants, and entertainment venues frequented by motorists would amplify its impact.

As for the education aspect, the true power of self-testing lies herein. Strong campaigns are needed to educate the public about the dangers of drunk driving and the legal Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) limit, and this knowledge empowers individuals to utilise self-test breathalysers effectively. While having access to self-breathalyser equipment is a crucial first step to curbing drunk driving incidents, the reality is that if a motorist does not understand the reading produced by the device (and the consequential risks attached to this reading), then the exercise may prove fruitless. Motorists need to be equipped with the knowledge on why they should not be drinking and driving.

Address the root cause

While self-testing offers a valuable tool, it’s important to address the root cause of drunk driving: a lack of awareness regarding the associated risks. Without a comprehensive education campaign, the effectiveness of self-testing will be severely limited, as many drivers unfortunately lack a clear understanding of the dangers of drunk driving and the legal BAC limits.

Educational campaigns are integral to addressing this knowledge gap and must extend beyond simply encouraging testing.

They should:

• Highlight the dangers: emphasise the devastating consequences of drunk driving, not just for the driver but also for innocent passengers and pedestrians. Vivid portrayals of accidents and victim stories can serve as powerful deterrents.
• Debunk myths: many misconceptions surround alcohol consumption and its impact on driving ability. Campaigns should dispel these myths, stressing that even a small amount of alcohol can impair judgement and reaction time.
• Raise awareness about the process of alcohol metabolisation and how factors like weight, food intake, and individual tolerance affect BAC.
• Promote responsible alternatives: educate the public on alternative transportation options like designated drivers, ride-hailing services, or public transport after consuming alcohol.

Expanding the reach of prevention through accessibility

While the current programme for taxi ranks caters to a specific sector, drunk driving is a problem that affects all motorists. To truly make a difference, the accessibility of self-testing needs to be expanded. Potential solutions include the installation of self-test breathalysers at strategic locations, such as bars, restaurants, and event venues where alcohol consumption is common. To raise awareness, this would need to run in conjunction with mobile breathalyser programmes, where trained officials conduct breathalyser checks at public events or social gatherings.

Amplifying law enforcement effectiveness

Law enforcement must still play a critical role in deterring drunk driving, with police officers acting as a visible deterrent on the roads to remind motorists of the potential consequences. However, their effectiveness rests on proper training, as officers need a deep understanding of the dangers posed by drunk drivers, not just the legal aspects. This empowers them to identify intoxicated drivers through standardised field sobriety tests and an accurate assessment of behaviour. Police officers must also be adequately trained on breathalyser testing procedures to become a powerful force in keeping drunk drivers off the roads.

A multifaceted approach

The Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality’s programme demonstrates a proactive approach to tackling drunk driving. By combining self-testing with education and potentially expanding accessibility, this initiative has the potential to significantly reduce drunk driving incidents. However, achieving lasting change requires a multi-faceted approach. Sustained public awareness campaigns and increased enforcement measures around self-testing breathalyser stations are essential in fostering a culture of responsible driving.