Though I focus on DUI defense, I applaud every preventive effort that goes toward keeping impaired drivers off the road. For example, I’m fascinated with the portable testing devices for breath alcohol levels. They’re compact, one has a smartphone app, and one goes on a keychain, presumably next to the car keys. These products have a terrific premise. If you consume alcohol and wonder whether you should drive or not, the device tells you almost instantly, theoretically before you start your car.
Some people may depend on the device and abide by what it tells them. Other people may see or hear the device tell them that their breath registers over the legal limit for alcohol, and still get on the road. (In Arizona, that’s 0.08.) That’s their choice, but those drivers may soon face the other kind of breath alcohol test: the kind administered by law enforcement. The kind that comes with a DUI stop.
For the sake of discussion, it can be argued that the cost of one of these devices, around $100, is well worth the investment because, as I actually heard someone say once, “it’s cheaper than a DUI.” But here’s another consideration: would you risk your life, the lives of others, and your future as well, on the accuracy of a consumer product? Now, I do not mean to suggest or imply anything relating to the quality or reliability of these products. I am merely creating a hypothetical scenario. The choice, as always, lies with the person holding the car keys. And remember, Arizona Statute 28-1381 is specific as to “how much” alcohol or drugs constitutes legally actionable impairment: even to the slightest degree.
Ingenuity, technology, and meeting consumer needs are all admirable. However, there is also, and probably always will be, the need for experienced legal help for people in DUI-related situations. So if that need arises, please call on us at Zachary Law Group. Take advantage of our FREE 30-minute case evaluation to get answers to your questions. From there, we can work towards finding the best legal solution possible. That’s how we “Zach-It”! It’s your decision – make it count! Give us a call soon, at 1-855-Zach-law.
