What can the German police do if they suspect a driver is intoxicated?

In Germany, if the police suspect that a driver is intoxicated, they have the authority to demand a breath or blood test. This can include using force if necessary, particularly in situations where a driver may refuse to comply or pose a danger to themselves or others. The legal framework supports the enforcement of sobriety tests to maintain road safety, and the police are trained to assess signs of intoxication. This response ensures that impaired drivers can be identified and apprehended, which is crucial for preventing accidents and protecting public safety.

In contrast, a voluntary test might not always provide a reliable assessment if the driver is uncooperative. Simply issuing a ticket without conducting a test would undermine the enforcement of driving under the influence regulations, as it wouldn't confirm the driver's intoxication level. Allowing a driver to leave would also contradict the responsibility of the police to ensure that individuals who might be a danger while driving are not permitted to get back on the road.