SAN DIEGO DUI ATTORNEY

Challenging the Breathalyzer Test Results

Field sobriety testing is generally administered by police officers to determine a person's blood alcohol content level (BAC). The most common methods include:

- Blood test
- Urine samples
- Breathalyzer test
- Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus test (HGN)
- Walk and turn test
- One leg stand test

While blood testing is the most reliable method, the breathalyzer test is commonly used because it's easy to transport, easy to administer, and produces fast test results.

The breathalyzer machine consists of the suspect providing a sample of breath through a small tube. The machine is programmed to detect Ethyl alcohol, and if the amount is over the legal limit, the officer can automatically have the suspect under arrest. However, in some occasions, the breathalyzer test results are not always accurate.

Since the breathalyzer machine is programmed to detect Ethyl alcohol, it fails to differentiate it from Methyl alcohol. People with diabetes tend to have high levels of methyl nitrites, leading to higher levels of methyl alcohol readings. The same goes for those who are constantly changing diets and eating various foods that contain methyl. If you consume substances that carry methyl, there's a good chance that the breathalyzer machine can confuse it for Ethyl.

Some other factors that can interfere with the breathalyzer test results include:

- Weather or temperature conditions
- Breathalyzer machine malfunctions
- Machine not properly calibrated before use
- Faulty thermometer readings
- Dirt or smoke
- Blood or Vomit in the Mouth

Breathalyzer test results can be challenged in a number of ways. Contact an experienced DUI attorney who can investigate your case and build a strong defense.

At the Law Offices of James V. Bickford, IV, we specialize in DUI cases and have successfully represented numerous clients in court San Diego DUI attorney, James V. Bickford will utilize his knowledge and skills to build a strong defense for your case and help you obtain a favorable result. He will provide you with the appropriate advice for your situation and help you through the complete process.

For a free initial consultation and free case evaluation, contact San Diego DUI attorney James V. Bickford, IV.