Japan: Mobile Phone checks for drink-driving

Anew breath analyzer system from DoCoMo that is connected to a mobile phone is becoming popular with bus and transport companies in Japan.

The new system that uses a 3G handset, is considered to be foolproof. Before a driver starts every day or at certain intervals, (s)he makes a video-phone call to the company and breathes into the analyzer connected to their cell phone.

A video image showing the driver blowing into the analyzer and data regarding the alcohol concentration is transferred in parallel to the office and registered / confirmed by computer there. As the company can see the video image, it is almost impossible for the driver to have someone else breath into the analyzer for him. The system costs about 270,000 yen (about USD 2,300).

via WWJ