Journal 15, July 1

MADD Increases Breathalyzer Usage

The group everyone is well informed of, Mothers against Drunk Driving (MADD), is attempting to go above and beyond like never before. State highways operators are already responsible for the drinking age to begin at 21 years old and the limit to be 0.8%. Now, MADD is taking this one step further. Already you can get a DUI and install a breathalyzer in your car in order to stay out of jail. A breathalyzer, according to alcoholalert.com, is an ignition interlock device that prevents a previous offender of drunk driving from starting their car until they have breathed into the device. This device tells reads the offenders blood alcohol content and will not start if they breathe over a 0.8%. Mothers Against Drunk Driving are now trying to implement a strong law that mandates these interlocked devices are installed in every car throughout the United States. Already these devices have reduced drunken accidents in New Mexico by 35%.

I think this is a great idea but needs some tweaking. Obviously drunk drivers account for a majority of the accidents on highways across the nation every year and are also responsible for numerous fatalities. While installing a breathalyzer in every car is a good idea I do not think it is practical. What if someone were to go out to dinner and a ball game and perhaps had a beer or two – would their car still start or would it assume they are drunk or incapable of driving? Also, this idea sort of falls in contradiction of our rights and freedoms, does it not? It is hard for me to understand where MADD gained the rights or knowledge to assume everybody drives drunk all the time. I understand their motive and good-will, I just don’t find it too practical. I do believe it would dramatically decrease accidents and other alcohol related dilemmas every year but it needs a little more thought and test trials before being mandated otherwise serious ethical issues and controversies may arise from the public. Society would greatly benefit from its overall affect though.

Reference Used:
http://www.time.com/time/business/article/0,8599,1907493,00.html?cnn=yes

Additional References:
http://www.alcoholalert.com/car-breathalyzer.html

http://www.usatoday.com/money/autos/2006-04-24-breathalyzer-usat_x.htm