New Year's eve is a wonderful night to have a party. It is also a popular night to ring in the new year with a toast or two of champagne or other alcoholic drink. After having a few drinks, you may feel completely competent to get behind the wheel. However, we know that all too often this is not a good idea. How long do you have to wait? Each person metabolizes alchohol a bit differently but a good rule of thumb is one hour for each drink that you have had. Another good idea is to use a portable alcohol breathalyzer such as the Alcohawk. This device fits easily into a purse or coat pocket and is quite accurate.
What if you are the one throwing the party and want to make sure that your guests are not leaving intoxicated? You may simply collect the car keys upon arrival and insist on your guest demonstrating a low level on the breathalyzer before being allowed to drive home. Of course, all guests should be invited to the same treatment.
These breathalyzer devices should be viewed as an adjunct to common sense. Obviously, drinking and driving is not condoned. However, many may find testing their alcohol level to be surprisingly insightful.