Repeat Offender

Senior Caught Drunk and Without a License 7 Times

The breathalyzer test – if refused, the highest presumed blood alcohol level applies(Bild: Uta Rojsek-Wiedergut)

A 65-year-old man from Wels is likely a special “case.” Since 2025, the senior citizen has been caught seven times in a row driving his expensive car while drunk and without a license. Most recently this week. The notorious traffic offender categorically refused to take a breathalyzer test.

When the 65-year-old was caught for the seventh time in a row during a traffic stop in Wels at 4:30 p.m. this week, the “pro” immediately admitted to not having a driver’s license. His strong “breath” suggested, however, that the senior had not only fueled his car but also himself beforehand.  This comes as no surprise, as during the six previous traffic stops, the unlicensed and completely unrepentant driver had also always been significantly intoxicated.

Here’s the legal situation
Anyone who refuses a breathalyzer test without cause—that is, without medical justification—is committing a criminal offense. This applies even if the medical examination subsequently reveals no alcohol impairment. Authorities assume the highest possible blood alcohol concentration for those who refuse. This means the driver faces the same penalty as if they had had a blood alcohol content of over 1.6 per mille. A fine of between 1,600 and 5,900 euros is imposed. Additionally, the driver’s license is revoked for at least six months. The offender also faces mandatory retraining, a medical examination by a public health officer, and a traffic psychology assessment.

The breathalyzer test—if refused, the highest presumed blood alcohol concentration applies(Bild: Uta Rojsek-Wiedergut)

Police officers would like to see harsher penalties
The Wels drunkard, however, is likely to be well-off financially, as the impending financial blow apparently left him cold. A circumstance that frustrates the police. Law enforcement officials are urging that penalties for such behavior be significantly increased to strengthen the deterrent effect.