Changing the Way We Think about Car Breathalyzers

Let’s be honest, when you see a person who has to blow into a car breathalyzer or ignition interlock device to start his or her car, you probably don’t think of their perfect driving record. Obviously, that person was convicted of a drunk driving charge, and it could have even been a one-time mistake. But, that doesn’t take away the impression of seeing someone go through the process of ensuring his or her sobriety before hitting the road.

There are plenty of dangers involved with drunk drivers on the road, and none of us want to be a victim of someone else’s poor judgment. A heartfelt apology to the court or anyone involved in a drunk driving incident doesn’t always cover the damage that has occurred. Fines, fees and substance abuse treatment programs may seem lenient, given the potential outcome of driving drunk. But, a car breathalyzer? That really just means the offender is willing to do his or her part to make sure there is never another problem with poor judgment again, and proving it each time they blow into the device.

A car breathalyzer comes with driving restrictions and guidelines. Some people may only be allowed to drive to and from work, while others can only drive between 7am and 7pm, for example. Anyone using a car breathalyzer is following those guidelines, and if they aren’t, the data collected will show it to the court and they will face further consequences.

A person with a car breathalyzer is driving legally. Once a person is ordered to install a car breathalyzer, he or she is given permission to keep driving. People with drunk driving convictions may continue to drive illegally, but, they’re not the ones with car breathalyzers.

Ignition interlock devices and car breathalyzers prove sobriety. You can’t say that about anyone else on the road, can you?

While there isn’t a great amount of pride in having to use a car breathalyzer, there are reasons to applaud those who do. Not only are they taking each moment to truly make up for their bad judgment, but, they’re committing to a life of sober driving.