Depending on where you live (some countries have an alcohol limit of zero for drivers) 30% or more of fatal traffic accidents involve intoxicated drivers. That’s a very high number indeed.
It’s probably fair to say that most people leaving the bar just can’t tell whether or not they’ll pose a risk to others and themselves if they get behind the wheel. Most policemen have a story or two about stopping drivers who were barely able to talk, yet continued to insist that they had only consumed “one or two” beers. Some paramedics actually refuse to drive on weekend nights unless it’s for work or otherwise unavoidable, and they of all people should know what’s up.
Traffic safety is also not the only context in which rapid, accurate alcohol testing may be important. Especially considering that the effects of “the night before” can sometimes persist into the morning after, many companies, especially businesses whose workers operate vehicles or heavy machinery, really need a reliable way of determining whether or not an employee is fit to work.
Disposable breathalysers have been available to the public for quite some time now, but their cost is prohibitive when talking about everyday use. This device, on the other hand, gives accurate readings even at extreme temperatures, is guaranteed for a year, and can be expected to work reliably even after hundreds or thousands of tests. With six sterilizable mouthpieces included, it can be used regularly on multiple people.
Unfortunately, at this price, most people won’t be able to buy it just to keep in their glove boxes; some cheaper alternatives, which are not nearly as accurate, are available for this purpose. If, however, you run a bar or restaurant and care about the safety of your patrons, getting a durable, accurate breathalyser is a really good idea.
It is not, just to be clear, a truly professional-grade blood alcohol meter like those the police use. Its accuracy is only certified for the first 200 uses, and the manufacturer doesn’t offer any kind of re-calibration service.
