Queensland Police are cracking down on drink driving again — and they’re not holding back. After a quieter period during the pandemic, random breath testing (RBT) operations are back in full force across the state, with more than 740,000 breath tests already conducted since January 1 2025.
Police are aiming to hit over 2 million tests this year, marking the biggest testing blitz since COVID-19.
With an average of 40 people caught drink driving every day, the message is clear: getting behind the wheel after drinking is still a major issue — and you’re more likely than ever to get caught.
Why drink driving is still a serious issue
Even with fewer people being detected than in previous years, drink driving remains a high-risk behaviour. As of April 2024, 5,233 drink driving offences have already been recorded in Queensland. That’s over 40 Queenslanders each day who are putting themselves — and others — at risk.
While some might see a gradual decline in numbers as a positive sign, it may also reflect a shift in testing strategies. With testing now back to pre-pandemic levels, it’s more important than ever to understand the real risks of drink driving.
Common misconceptions that catch drivers out
Many people still get behind the wheel believing they’re safe to drive after a few drinks. But common assumptions like:
- “I’ve only had a couple, I’ll be fine.”
- “I waited a few hours.”
- “I feel fine — I must be under.”
…can lead to disaster. Your Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) depends on many factors, including your weight, sex, how much you ate, and how fast your body processes alcohol. And it’s nearly impossible to guess accurately.
👉 Want to know more? Read our blog: Stop kidding yourself: Breathalyser misconceptions
Why next-day driving isn’t always safe either
You might have stopped drinking hours ago, but that doesn’t mean your BAC has returned to 0.00%. Depending on how much you drank, your body could still be processing alcohol well into the next morning.
Even with a zero reading, hangover symptoms like fatigue, brain fog, and slower reaction times can still make you an unsafe driver.
What’s the difference? Hangover vs drink driving.
What you can do to avoid a costly mistake
- Don’t guess — test. Use a personal breathalyser to check your BAC before you drive.
- Plan your night: use a ride-share service, assign a designated driver, or stay overnight.
- Educate your mates. Share the facts and keep your circle safe.
Tools that can help: Portable breathalysers from Andatech
Having a reliable, accurate breathalyser on hand can give you peace of mind — and help you avoid fines, accidents, or worse.
- Try the Andatech GT: Accurate, compact, lightweight, and fast. Keep in your bag or pocket whenever you’re out for safer nights out.
- Or explore our full range of personal breathalysers.
Be ready when the lights flash
RBTs are here to stay — and for good reason. The goal isn’t to catch you out; it’s to keep roads safe.
With more drivers being tested, and more awareness than ever before, there’s no excuse to take the risk. Whether you’re heading home from dinner or waking up after a night out, know your BAC before you drive.
Test yourself. Stay safe. And make sure you’re always ready when the lights flash.
