A recent phenomenon has been happening in both North and South Carolina. Drivers convicted of drunk driving have been claiming the breathalyzers used are faulty. Multiple claims have been made that breathalyzer tests are reading as false positives after detecting things like mouthwash and mints as alcohol. This has largely been a reported issue for those who have been convicted of drunk driving and as a result have had to add a breathalyzer device to their vehicle that prevents the vehicle from starting unless the breathalyzer passes with a blood alcohol content below 0.02. For most people, this level is equivalent to one drink.
Carolinians are claiming more than alcohol reads on the breathalyzer.
Some people have reported that having freshly used mouthwash caused the device to read a BAC higher than 0.02. Others have said that even slices of pizza have caused the device to read high BAC levels. One resident, Tanya Adames, said that after she used her asthma medication, an inhaler, the device in her car showed alcohol in her system.
Local news reporters have been reporting on these complaints. One reporter decided to test it for himself. He used the breathalyzer without having any fresh food or drink. When he did, he passed the test. He then used mouthwash and had a breath mint. After this, he failed.
Many have raised concerns about the issue.
The faulty breathalyzers means that drivers who have been convicted of drunk driving lose access to driving after having eaten or drank many other things that do not include any alcohol. Because the devices are set up to prevent a car from starting, people have to deal with their car not starting, even when they are completely sober.
Auto stores have complained about the issue as well.
When managers have their employees install the devices, they notice how sensitive they are as well. One store manager at Audiowerks said, “We have some customers, everything’s hunky dory. Some have never ending problems, never ending.”
The state agencies behind the devices have themselves acknowledged the sensitivity of the breathalyzers. They have stated that products such as mouthwash, mints, coffee, energy drinks, cough drops, and even foods with a high yeast amount can cause the device to detect a BAC of 0.02 or higher. Even some products that do not go in the mouth, such as lotions, perfume, hair spray, and hand sanitizer can set off the device. This has caused major life interruptions for people trying to follow state laws and be compliant.
Some drivers also have to do running tests.
These running tests are breathalyzer tests that are required while driving to ensure they are still sober. One driver reported having to do five tests for a 30 minute drive. In the beginning and end of her drive, her results passed. But in the middle, it showed signs of alcohol. Because the drive was so short, there is no way her results would be fine again by the end if the device were working properly.
Because the agencies also recognize the issue, they are working to find a compromise. The devices do work a lot of the time as well and help reduce drunk driving. However, the agencies do not want to keep allowing them to impact people’s lives further negatively.
