Interactive Breathalyzers: A New Approach to Road Safety
Table of Contents
A new device resembling an arcade game is being tested in French bars to raise awareness about drunk driving. The “Flinebox” breathalyzer allows patrons to voluntarily check their blood alcohol content and estimate when it will return to safe levels.
How the Flinebox Works
The Flinebox uses a disposable straw connected to a sensor to measure blood alcohol content. It provides an immediate reading and estimates the time needed to reach a zero BAC, as well as potential fines for exceeding the legal limit of 0.5 g/l. Even a reading below the legal limit can trigger a warning against driving, encouraging users to find option transportation.
Democratizing Breath Testing
“We want to democratize the act of blowing,” explains Antoine Cardon,general delegate of the Prevention and Moderation association,an organization supported by Brasseurs de France,the French Spirits Federation,and the French Aperitif Wine Federation. “Usually, we blow when a police officer asks us to, it’s forced. Here, we are on a voluntary approach which allows us to control our consumption and possibly organize our return.”
Beyond Cars: Addressing All Impaired Mobility
The Flinebox isn’t just for drivers. The device also prompts users to consider the dangers of operating bicycles, scooters, and other personal mobility devices while under the influence. “Riding a bike drunk is as dangerous as riding a car,” emphasizes Cardon.
Pilot Program and Results
The Flinebox is currently being piloted in Rennes, Lille, Nantes, and Paris, following an initial phase in the PACA region last summer were over 18,500 tests were conducted. Three establishments in Rennes – The Melting Pot, Delirium, and 1988 live club – are participating in the current phase, which concludes in January.
About Fline
The Flinebox was invented by Belgian company fline,founded in 2019. The company also produces the “flinebooth” for larger events. Fline received the European Road safety Award in the Driving under the influence and/or distraction category in October 2024. [European Road Safety Awards 2024]
The Ongoing Problem of Drunk Driving in france
Despite a 7.5% decrease in alcohol-related fatal accidents in 2024 compared to 2023, drunk driving remains a critically important concern, causing one in five fatal accidents in France. [French Ministry of the Interior – Road Safety Statistics] This highlights the need for continued efforts to raise awareness and prevent impaired driving.
Key Takeaways:
- The Flinebox is an interactive breathalyzer designed to encourage voluntary self-testing for blood alcohol content.
- It provides estimates of BAC levels, potential fines, and time needed to reach a safe BAC.
- The device is being piloted in several French cities and aims to address impaired driving of all types, including bicycles and scooters.
- The initiative is supported by industry associations and aims to promote responsible alcohol consumption.
Published: 2025/12/28 06:04:00
Keep reading