A digital alcohol analyzer is an excellent way to reduce the risks associated with driving under the influence. While most responsible adults understand that driving under the influence of alcohol is dangerous, it can sometimes be difficult to discern whether someone is inebriated to the point of impairment. A portable breathalyzer lets its owner test their own blood alcohol content (BAC) or that of another driver before agreeing to drive or ride as a passenger. Ensuring that a driver is fit to handle the responsibility of the road not only reduces the likelihood of life threatening accidents, it could also help to avoid the many consequences of drinking and driving.

A personal digital alcohol analyzer determines the approximate amount of alcohol in a person's bloodstream using a complicated combination of chemistry and electronics. While the device doesn't actually measure BAC, it is able to provide an accurate estimate based on the amount of ethanol present in a driver's breath. When a driver breathes into the breathalyzer, any ethanol on their breath affects the amount of electricity which can be conducted across the device's primary sensor. The sensor measures the change in conductivity which results from the user's breath, and interprets those results into a BAC reading. The BAC reading, often displayed as a decimal on a simple LED screen, can help a driver make the most responsible decision for their specific situation.

With a few exceptions, state laws across the United States define drunk driving as operating a vehicle with a BAC of 0.08 or higher. While legal repercussions differ from state to state, they are almost always severe and impose serious, life-changing consequences on both first time and repeat offenders. Penalties often include the suspension of the drivers' license, mandatory enrollment in driving safety courses, legal fines and even jail time. In some cases, repeat offenders may lose their license indefinitely.

Driving responsibly and avoiding the consequences of a DUI offense can be incredibly simple. With the use of a personal breathalyzer there's never any question about the legality of the driver's condition. Digital alcohol analyzers are accurate, affordable and easy to operate, and they are delivered by their manufacturers totally calibrated and ready to use. Whether they're used to test their owner's own BAC before operating a vehicle, or to ensure that other drivers are fit to take on the road, a personal breathalyzer is one way to improve personal safety.