Alcoblow the derisive name given for the breathalyser kits that police used to administer is set to make a return, that is if amendments to the Traffic Act currently in Parliament go through.
The much-maligned tool used by police to check for the alcohol level in motorists is set to come back after an increase in road accidents last year.
Kassait Kamke, the Tiaty MP has published The Traffic (Amendment) Bill 2021, which seeks to clarify the issues that led to the outlawing of breathalysers in 2017.
This was after the Court of Appeal ruled that the police department hadn't explained what constitutes a violation of speed limits.
Therefore, the new bill explains what constitutes drunk driving, as prescribed below;
“A person who, when driving or attempting to drive, or in charge of a motor vehicle on a road or other public place is under the influence of an alcoholic drink or a drug beyond the prescribed limits, shall be guilty of an offense."
Adding,
“Amendment shall ensure this test will be objective by providing for such measurable and scientific applications such as prescribed limits to be provided in the regulations."
If/when it is enacted drunk driving will cost one Sh100,000 or a jail term of not more than two years.
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