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Behavioural Economics: Compulsory Breathalysers
2nd July 2012
Alcohol-related accidents are the leading cause of death and serious injury for victims of car crashes in France and the government has decided to introduce a strong behavioural nudge by making it compulsory for every car to have a portable breathalyser kit in their vehicles or risk a fine. This applies to every vehicle including those driven by tourists. Vehicle owners will have until November 2012 to get used to it before the fines are imposed.
Having a breathalyser in the glove box or on the front passenger seat might well be an effective reminder for people before they turn on the ignition. Reminders of our mortality and/or our morality can often prime us to make safer, better choices. I applaud the French government for introducing this new law. All motorists must also have with them a high-visibility safety vest and a warning triangle.
See also: BBC news video: France orders breathalyser for motorists
The drink-driving limit in France is 50mg of alcohol in 100ml of blood - 30mg less than the UK limit. The French government has approved two breathalyser kits – a cheap blow-in-the-bag tester that costs £3 and digital versions that cost more than £100 - a boom for manufacturers of these products!
Geoff Riley
Geoff Riley FRSA has been teaching Economics for over thirty years. He has over twenty years experience as Head of Economics at leading schools. He writes extensively and is a contributor and presenter on CPD conferences in the UK and overseas.