Drinking Downtown This Weekend? Annapolis Police To Offer Breathalyzer Tests

ANNAPOLIS, MD — The Annapolis educational program to combat drunk driving, dubbed Know Your Limit, will hold an event on Saturday, March 11. This event is scheduled prior to St. Patrick's Day to raise awareness regarding drunk driving.

Annapolis police officers will offer free breathalyzer tests and distribute literature near the Market House for the March 11 event.

Volunteers participants will be asked if they feel safe to drive a car, then they'll blow into a portable breathalyzer. Participants will be told what their blood alcohol content (BAC) is, and given an educational card with information on alcohol consumption and options to get home safely.

Mayor Michael Pantelides started this program last year to educate residents on the dangers of drunk driving, and alternative ways to get around in Annapolis.

"The Know Your Limit program is not intended as a scare tactic," police said in a statement regarding the event. "Instead, it’s intended to provide an educational opportunity to encourage groups to designate a sober driver and make good choices."

Most people are aware that Maryland law sets the legal BAC for a driver below .08 percent, police said, but drivers with BACs under .08 can show signs of impairment.

Police said many people might not realize how little alcohol it takes to reach a BAC of .08 percent.

The event will be held from 10 p.m. to 12 a.m. near the Market House Saturday.

Shutterstock Photo