Kerala High Court: Breathalyzer Test Unreliable If ‘Air Blank Test’ Not Conducted Properly

The Kerala High Court held that breathalyser results may be unreliable if the mandatory “air blank test” isn't properly performed.

Justice VG Arun granted partial relief to a man accused of drunk driving, noting the air blank test showed a non-zero reading before the breath sample, making the result invalid.

Justice VG Arun noted that the air blank test, which should show zero alcohol levels before and after each breath sample, is essential to ensure accuracy.

The court also found the man held a valid licence at the time, quashing the charge under Section 181 read with Section 3(1) of the Motor Vehicles Act.