The author describes possible changes in britains drinking and driving laws which are at present being studied by the blennerhassett committee. New improved breath testing devices, greater standardisation of police procedures and a lower limit are considered to be possible changes. Shortcomings of the alcotest 80 in current use are discussed and improved methods are reviewed. The present drinking and driving law in great britain has caused the analysing of samples to become the most time-consuming function in forensic laboratories. The committee will also have to consider the law regarding persons other than the driver who whilst under the influence of alcohol cause an accident and cannot be made to take a breath test. It is difficult to define a permitted level of alcohol in the blood stream. The author suggests that a figure of 50 mg per 100 ml is far more justified as above this limit the probability of being involved in an accident increases rapidly.
Abstract