Merseyside Police has become the first force in the United Kingdom to deploy evidential roadside alcohol-testing technology, a move aimed at detecting and deterring drink-driving among returning holidaymakers. The new technology, introduced as part of Operation Take Off, allows officers to charge motorists at the roadside for drink-driving offences, eliminating the need for a subsequent evidential sample at a police station.
How the New Technology Works
Previously, an initial roadside screening test would be followed by the requirement for an evidential sample in custody, potentially several hours later. During that time, the driver's body continues to process alcohol, meaning that a person who was clearly over the limit at the roadside might no longer provide a sample high enough to meet the evidential threshold by the time they reach custody. Evidential roadside testing removes that risk entirely by providing a legally admissible result immediately.
Merseyside Roads Policing Inspector Gavin Dixon explained: "It might not sound like a major breakthrough, but being able to charge people at the roadside for drink-driving could make the difference between securing a prosecution and losing one. If someone blows over the limit in a roadside breath test, we have traditionally needed to take them into custody and obtain an evidential sample before any charge can be brought. During that time, their body continues to process the alcohol. That means we can sometimes find ourselves in the frustrating position where a driver who was clearly over the limit at the roadside is no longer providing a sample high enough to meet the evidential threshold by the time they reach custody. Evidential roadside testing removes that risk entirely."
Operation Take Off and Its Significance
The technology is being deployed as part of Operation Take Off, a proactive intervention campaign targeting post-holiday drink-driving. The operation is named in memory of Zackary and Karlene, whose tragic deaths underscore the importance of this initiative. Inspector Dixon added: "It is particularly meaningful to take this step as part of Operation Take Off. The tragic circumstances surrounding the deaths of Zackary and Karlene demonstrate exactly why this proactive approach is needed. Every improvement we can make in detecting and prosecuting those who drive under the influence is vital."
Deterrence and Justice
The new capability is expected to act as a strong deterrent for drivers who might consider drinking before or during their journey home. Inspector Dixon warned: "If someone has been drinking before boarding their flight home, or while travelling, and believes that somehow they can get behind the wheel without consequence, they should think again. We now have the ability to remove them from the road immediately and begin the process of bringing them to justice."
Merseyside Police has a strong history of being an early adopter of technology that helps prevent serious and fatal collisions. While this technology is available to forces across the country, Merseyside is proud to be the first to deploy it operationally. The force hopes that other police forces will follow suit, making roads safer across the UK.
