Connecticut's the News Times reports that state lawmakers in Connecticut are hoping for a reduction of DUIs with legislation currently under consideration which would provide incentives for bar and restaurant owners to install Breathalyzers in their establishments. If the legislation is passed, it would be the first of its kind in the U.S.
State Sen. Arthur O'Neill (R-Southbury) said he believed the idea to be "very interesting" and said that it could reduce the likelihood of someone drinking and driving.
In the case of a patron getting into an accident due to driving under the influence, the proposed incentive would cut the maximum liability of a liquor permit holder from $250,00 to $100,00. However, the breathalyzer's use would be voluntary and results would not be permitted in criminal or legal proceedings.According to O'Neill, it would allow for bartenders to deny patrons further drink service until the test is taken. He noted that they are supposed to be trained to be able to tell when a patron has had too much, but when busy, that can be difficult.
Bar and restaurant owners with liquor permits would also be required to post signage which would notify patrons that the establishment would arrange transport for patrons who need a ride home at the customer's expense.
Bethel, Connecticut restaurant owner Dan Mottola says that he has always made it a point to find transportation for customers who have drank too much, even it requires that he has to drive the person himself. He says that monitoring drinking is easier for smaller bar areas like his, but the legislation would be helpful in larger establishments in which monitoring alcohol consumption is more difficult.
Mottola said the legislation would be worth considering if it prevents people from driving drunk, getting into wrecks, and causing harm to others "as long as it doesn't become invasive of personal rights."
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