The Debate on the Accuracy of DUI Tests and Breathalyzers in PA
If you have ever been suspected of DUI in Pennsylvania, you must have seen that the cops use breath analyzers to assess your Blood Alcohol Content (BAC). Why do you think they do that?
That’s because those are solid proof that the cops can produce against you in court. However, in Pennsylvania, there are disputes regarding the accuracy of DUI tests and breathalyzers.
Not just that, but there are a plethora of factors that can lead to invalid results. But what’s even worse is that these invalid results might put you in jail, or cost you your license!
So, if you’re facing a DUI charge, you need to be aware of these facts so that you can exercise your rights effectively. And to assist you in that, expert Pittsburgh DUI attorneys from the Logue Law Group stand as the perfect professionals.
Types of DUI Tests to Assess BAC Levels
When cops pull you over for DUI, they generally have a few ways to assess your BAC levels, like-
Breath Tests
These are portable breathalyzer devices (Intoxilyzer 8000) that are used at the scene. They might produce immediate results, but are often unreliable.
Field Sobriety Tests
These comprise a series of physical and mental exercises that you have to perform on the spot. It’s done to test your balance, coordination, and attention.
Urine Tests
These are more sophisticated forms of tests than breathalyzers, and are done to assess Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) precisely.
Blood Tests
These are considered the most accurate tests, where blood samples are drawn and analyzed in a lab to determine BAC levels, or the presence of drugs. Blood tests are called for when the accused refuses other tests or if drug impairment is suspected.
Factors that Cause Inaccurate DUI Tests
Blood and urine tests are surefire ways to assess BAC levels accurately. At the same time, Field Sobriety tests and breathalyzers carry risks of producing invalid results.
How so? Well, here are the reasons-
Environmental Factors
Extreme heat or cold conditions can affect the breathalyzers and lead to invalid results. Not just that, but if you were exposed to paint, glue, or cleaning products recently, the chances of invalid results become higher.
Biological Factors
If you’re suffering from a medical condition like GERD (acid reflux), it can also skew results! Also, if you’re suffering from diabetes, your body produces ketones. These ketones mimic alcohol and can produce inappropriate results.
Procedural Errors
Pennsylvania rules state that officers must complete 30 hours of training before they use breathalyzers, or the results might be invalid. Besides that, expired calibration solutions of the machine can also affect results.
So, even if your test results came out positive, don’t panic and call for a Pittsburgh criminal lawyer right away. Only a diligent and knowledgeable attorney can scrutinize the situation and come up with a good defense strategy for you.
DUI Test Refusal: What You Can or Cannot Do
According to the implied consent laws of Pennsylvania, you have to accept breath, blood, and urine tests if cops suspect you of DUI. If you refuse, your driver’s license gets suspended for one year!
However, expert Pittsburgh criminal lawyers suggest that you can refuse the Preliminary Breath tests (PBTs) or field sobriety tests, as they are less reliable.
Also, if proper procedures weren’t followed, or if the tests were administered incorrectly, the results could be skewed. A professional Pittsburgh DUI attorney can review all the evidence in such cases, including police dashcam or bodycam footage, and identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. They can fight to have inaccurate test results excluded from evidence, which eventually strengthens your defense.So, don’t let a bunch of questionable test results dictate your future! If you’re convicted of DUI charges, it’s essential to seek experienced legal representation. And with a team of the most knowledgeable Pittsburgh criminal lawyers, Sean Logue from Logue Law Group can be your best friend in such a situation! Contact at 844.PITT.DUIfor a free consultation today!