“When is the right time for me to measure my alcohol level?”

A common misconception by drinkers is believing that once a person has consumed their last drink the Blood Alcohol Content (BAC), measured as a percentage, remains at this level. This is incorrect. The instructions for most breathalyser’s state that at least 20-30 minutes should pass before a breathalyser reading is attempted. You may be aware that, when stopped by the police for a random breath test (RBT), you are usually asked if you have had anything to drink in the last 30 minutes. You should be mindful that even after the consumption of alcohol has ceased, the BAC might continue to rise for a further two to three hours. It is only at this point that you will have the highest likely BAC reading.

When you are enjoying a few drinks and decide to do a breath test from your hand held breathalyser, the reading may be low. This low reading could allow you to believe that you are capable of driving your motor vehicle, flying your aircraft, driving your boat, or even going to work. In fact, your BAC may continue to rise for up to two to three hours after your last drink! A little into your journey, should you be subjected to a Police breathalyser test, there is a significant chance (depending on your alcohol consumption and what you have eaten prior) you will fail the test. The consequences of a failed breath test are far reaching and could impact on your work and private life.  The consequences of driving drunk and hurting or killing somebody are even worse.

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