/ 7 December 2009

Blow before you go: Breathalysers now on sale

Disposable breathalysers will be on sale for drivers during the holiday, Transport Minister Sibusiso Ndebele said on Sunday.

”We have partnered with the private sector to ensure that you are able to test your own alcohol levels before driving through purchasing a disposable alcohol breathalyser,” said Ndebele at the launch of Arrive Alive’s campaign for the holiday season in Orange Farm, Gauteng.

He said the breathalysers would be on sale at Engen Garages.

Ndebele said he hoped to have the disposable breathalysers available at other outlets in the near future.

Traffic officials would stop and check no less than one million vehicles across the country throughout December and January.

Roadblocks would be set up and patrols and speed monitoring organised.

”There will be zero tolerance for all traffic offences.”

Ndebele said the traffic officials would be looking to stamp out pedestrian jaywalking, especially if the person had been drinking or was walking on a highway.

Drivers that were speeding, drinking, overtaking in unsafe situations, using cellphones, not using safety belts or ignoring red lights would be caught.

The roadworthiness of vehicles — especially taxis and buses — as well as vehicles being overloaded with goods or passengers would be checked.

”We will focus on mass movement of vehicles along main arterial routes to different provinces after industries close, as well as for holiday shopping.” – Sapa