DUI Testing
Across the nation, it is against the law for drivers over the age of 21 to operate a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08 percent or higher. In order to determine a driver’s BAC, he or she must submit to a chemical test.BAC is the ratio of alcohol to blood in your bloodstream. The higher a person’s BAC, the more he or she is impaired by the alcohol.
There are three types of chemical tests: breath, blood, and urine. If an officer suspects that a driver is under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs, he or she will ask the suspect to take one of these tests. Be aware that the penalty for refusing to take a chemical test is often more severe than if the driver had taken the test and failed.
Breath Test
The breath test, or breathalyzer, is a portable machine that analyzes a person’s breath in order to determine his or her BAC. In order to take the test, the suspect must blow into a plastic tube until asked to stop. While this form of testing is fairly reliable, it is far from perfect. Certain medical conditions, such as acid reflux, may affect the results of the test. If the test is not maintained and calibrated properly, or the officer has not received sufficient training on how to administer the test, it may also skew the test results.
Blood Test
Blood tests are considered the most accurate way to determine a person’s BAC. In order to administer a blood test, the suspect must be brought back to the police station or a clinical facility. In some cases, a driver who has failed the breath test may also have a blood sample drawn. In addition to testing for alcohol, the blood test can be used to test for drugs.
Urine Test
Of the three tests, the urine test is the least accurate in determining BAC. While this test is used as a last resort to test for alcohol, it is useful for drug screening. Another devicethat is used in some states is the Alcohol Monitoring Bracelet.
Do you have a question about DUI testing? Contact an experienced DUI defense attorney today to discuss the testing that was used in your case and the next steps you should take.
