Texas DWI Lawyers Warn Against Trusting New DUI App Too Much
A new iPhone app designed to provide an estimate of a person’s blood alcohol content (or BAC) level is creating some buzz, but as Texas DWI lawyers, we worry that the app could lead to a false sense of security.
The app, developed by the Colorado Department of Transportation as part of its New Years DUI prevention efforts, is called R-U-Buzzed. It works by taking information like your weight and the number and type of drinks you have had, and then spitting out a BAC figure. That information also comes with a color coded message that informs you if you can drive home, or if you should absolutely hire a designated driver. R-U-Buzzed has proved very popular, and has been downloaded more than 40,000 times since it was released in December.
As Houston DWI lawyers, we have several problems with the app.
- On the surface of it, this might seem just like what the bartender ordered – a system that allows you to calculate your own BAC level and warn you if you aren’t fit to drive. However, the information isn’t completely accurate. To its credit, R-U-Buzzed doesn’t claim to offer a precise figure of a person’s BAC level. There are a number of factors besides weight and drinks consumed that can impact intoxication BAC levels.
- We also worry that persons, especially younger drivers, may see a message saying they’re sober and feel encouraged to drive. Remember, the app won’t help you if you fail a breathalyzer test and have to call a Houston DWI lawyer.
- There could also be potential for misusing the app, like in a game of who can drink the most at the bar. Checking BAC levels could turn into a party game, which Texas DWI lawyers would not advise at all.
At the end of the day, this is likely a fun and well intentioned, but flawed system that we would not advise motorists to base their driving decisions on.
If you have been charged with DWI or a alcohol related charge, contact the criminal defense lawyers at The Kahn Law Firm today for a free, confidential consultation at 713-226-9900 or toll free 1-877-226-9940.
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