Reader Reaction: Massachusetts Prosecutors Stop Using Breathalyzer Tests in Drunk Driving Cases

In June of 2021, most prosecutors in Massachusetts, US, have stopped usage of evidential breath alcohol tester, the Draeger Alcotest 9510 that was involved of controversial because it has been doubted as unreliability in most of DUI tests. Also, it was reported that most of operators of breathalyzers Draeger Alcotest 9510 were not properly certified. As a result, prosecutors questioned about many past drunk driving cases that the court ordered 27,000 people be notified about the issue.

Like auto service, the breathalyzers need regular maintenance as well, normally by sensor recalibration, or change a completely new sensor if necessary. For example, most of manufacturers of breathalyzers highly recommended fuel cell models need to be recalibrated in every 6 months or 1 year, alternatively 500 to 1000 blowing depending on frequency of usage.

Although recalibration maintenance is pretty necessary, the following cautions are equal position that can not be ignored.

1.To have accurate indication of blood alcohol concentration, please test at least 15 minutes later after drinking. Normally it may take up to 15 minutes for alcohol to be absorbed into bloodstream. If you take a breath test within this time, it probably gives out a false reading due to the air in your mouth or esophagus still has alcohol left.

2.Do not take smoke into the tube, which can damage the sensor.

3.Do not clean surface by Ethanol as it likely impacts testing your BAC. Please use soft wet cloth and neutral detergent.

4.Do not use it beyond -10℃-50℃., or the sensor will not have a good performance and the response is not accurate.

5.Avoid any fall or strong shock.

Share: