A proposal by Representative Greg Hughes of Draper, Utah would help bars install breathalyzers to assist patrons in deciding whether they are fit to drive.
According to articles from Fox News and The Salt Lake Tribune, the proposal is still in its infancy, but the measure would not require bars to install these devices. Hughes reasoning behind the law is that “if you drive on a road and see a speed limit sign, you have something in your car [a speedometer] to know how fast you’re going.” He hopes to assist those who might drink in knowing if they have had too much to drink before attempting to drive home.
Bar owners are concerned that by installing these devices, they might encourage drivers who would otherwise feel unsafe to drive by giving them false confidence from a lower reading. Bob McCarthy, a Salt Lake City bar owner, states, “Somebody could feel they shouldn’t be driving but the number says 0.08, which is right on the border, so maybe they’ll go and they shouldn’t go.”
Hughes wants to have a version of the bill this week, he is still trying to figure out how to shield bar owners from liability if a patron uses the breathalyzer and decides to drive anyways.
As an experienced DWI attorney in New Orleans, Louisiana, I am very interested in seeing how this potential bill could affect the laws here in Louisiana, especially if the police have access to the breathalyzer readings. If you have been charged with a DWI, contact a knowledgeable DWI attorney for help and guidance in understanding your rights.
This article’s image comes courtesy of Flickr contributor, Morgan Davis
