DIY breathalysers could lead to modified car insurance claims

Making a claim on their insurance could be the least of a motorist's problems if they use a do-it-yourself breathalyser to check whether they are fit to drive, according to one company.

Parker's Car Price Guide stated this type of self-testing device could lead to a driver losing their licence, or even their life.

A study by the organisation carried out in partnership with West Yorkshire police found the breathalysers were inaccurate.

When results from a range of inexpensive devices were compared with those from an official police breathalyser, significant discrepancies were discovered.

More than 50 per cent of the self-testing models advised drivers they were safe to get behind the wheel, when the police version registered a reading over the legal limit.

Commenting on the findings, Inspector Russell Clark stated: "Many people may think it's a good idea to buy one of these for a loved one, but this could be the very article that harms them."

This comes after Tayside police announced they are cracking down on people who are found to be over the drink-drive limit the morning after consuming alcohol.

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