Breath-test refusers 'drunk' under law change

Cabinet yesterday approved a change to the Land Traffic Act that gives police the right to treat motorists who refuse to take an alcohol breath test without sound reason as drunk drivers.

Government spokeswoman Sansanee Nakpong said the Justice Ministry proposal aims to boost road safety and prevent accidents, and had passed the Council of State Office's consideration. It was approved by Cabinet and would be put to Parliament for consideration soon.

The draft would allow police to use flashlights or light-reflector devices to give traffic signals; to test if a motorists' ability to drive is impaired by alcohol or drug consumption; and to detain suspicious motorists who refuse to take a breath test without a sound reason. She said the draft allowed police to presume some motorists were drunk drivers.