JCF Rolls Out Revamped Breathalyser Programme

The Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF), earlier this week, began an islandwide roll out of its revamped breathalyser programme, geared at catching motorists who partake in the illegal practice of Driving Under the Influence (DUI).
Speaking at the launch in Kingston, Commanding Officer of the Traffic and Highway Division, Superintendent Fred Hibbert, appealed to drivers across the island to refrain from drinking and driving, and pointed out that “persons who are thought to be drunk and refuse to take the breathalyser test, will be immediately perceived guilty. So, if you are not drunk, take the test.”
In terms of the test, motorists will be asked to blow into a plastic tube that will be attached to the breathalyser. The reading that is produced will indicate whether or not the person should be charged with a DUI. On the issue of hygiene, a new tube is used on every occasion and prior to its usage, the motorist is allowed to inspect it, to ensure that the package that it comes in is sealed.
The Superintendent issued a warning that persons who are convicted of driving under the influence of alcohol would be fined, heavily.
“Persons who are convicted of driving while under the influence of alcohol may be fined up to $20,000, in addition to further fines that may be imposed for speeding and for traffic violations,” he informed.
The police will also be monitoring driver behaviour for signs of alcohol consumption, such as careless driving, excessive speeding, improper overtaking and other moving violations.
Superintendent Hibbert pointed out that roads that are in the vicinity of dances, clubs, shows, fairs and parties would be specially targeted.
Meanwhile, Executive Director of the National Road Safety Council, Paula Fletcher, expressed the Council’s full support for the renewed breathalyser programme.
“We know that policing is a big part of keeping persons safe on the roads, and one of the initiatives that we’re trying to help the police with this year, is the breathalyser programme,” she said, and urged motorists to “co-operate with the police and take responsibility for the safety of their lives as they travel on the roads.”
The Traffic and Highway Division has 22 new breathalyser machines.