In the Czech Republic there is a zero tolerance for alcohol while driving. If a roadside police check finds that you have been drinking, you will be fined for drink driving. How does the breathalyzer test work, how high is the fine and what are the other sanctions?
Even for a low level, there is a risk of a high fine for alcohol behind the wheel, including a driving ban. You need to think about this even a few hours after drinking, when residual alcohol still remains in the blood. Self-confidence and the desire to take risks grow with alcohol. Even with a small amount of alcohol consumed, experts have confirmed a negative effect on concentration, risk assessment, managing multiple things at once, tracking a moving object or the ability to react quickly.
Breath test
Every police check must be accompanied by an orientation breath test. This rule has been in effect here since 2010. Various alcohol testers (tubes and electronic devices) are used. The resulting value is always indicative only. If the device detects alcohol in the breath, a professional measurement follows.
Professional measurement
The professional measurement is carried out no earlier than five minutes after the first measurement. This time will help to exclude a deviation, e.g. by using mouthwash or by a device error. A deviation from the original measurement of more than 10% means that the test must be repeated.
Driver’s statement
If the driver declares that he did not consume alcohol before and during the drive, a value of up to 0.24 per thousand is also considered a negative result. How is it possible? The police officer must take into account the possible deviation of the devices, but also the physiological deviation when measuring from the breath. If the driver admits to consuming alcohol, the result is also positive up to 0.24 per thousand.
Breath test refusal
Is it possible to refuse an indicative breath test for the presence of alcohol? Yes, even the driver can do that. It has similar consequences for your wallet and points system as driving with a high blood alcohol level. Refusal of the breath test will cost the driver 7 penalty points in the point system, a fine of twenty-five to fifty thousand crowns and a driving ban for up to two years. The matter is being resolved in administrative proceedings.
Beware of exclusion from insurance
Alcohol behind the wheel is one of the insurance exclusions. If you cause a traffic accident with alcohol in your blood, the insurance company will cover the damage for you from liability insurance will not pay. However, your car must have compulsory insurance in any case, without it you must not drive on public roads. If you are looking for the cheapest right now, we recommend trying the Klik.cz insurance company offer comparison tool. It’s free and in a few clicks you can find out who has the best price right now.
