The Accuracy Of Evidential Tests In A DUI Arrest

In this article, you will learn more about…

• The accuracy of evidential tests taken during a DUI arrest.
• The potential effects of medical conditions or medications on your breathalyzer test.
• Your next steps if you’ve failed a breathalyzer test.

How Accurate Are Evidential Tests Taken In DUI Cases In The San Francisco Bay Area?

DUI test accuracy is relatively consistent across California, including the San Francisco Bay area and surrounding counties. In the past, if you were arrested for DUI, you had a choice of three test types: breath, blood, or urine. However, urine tests are no longer administered today. Typically, if there is suspicion of drugs in the system, authorities may opt for a blood test. If alcohol-related intoxication is suspected, they may administer a breath test.

If there’s a choice, and you have consumed drugs, it’s best to opt for a breath test. If drugs are detected in your blood test without any alcohol, it could lead to severe consequences regarding driving privileges. A DUI conviction for drugs alone could result in the suspension of your driving privileges, so it is crucial to know which test to opt for, depending on your situation.

Can Medical Conditions Or Medications Affect The Results Of An Evidential Breathalyzer Test?

In certain instances, medical conditions or medications can influence the results of an evidential breathalyzer test. Severe medical conditions, like diabetes or gastric reflux (GERD), can occasionally lead to false positives.

GERD, for example, can cause air to continuously rise from the stomach, up the throat, and out the mouth into the breath machine, resulting in a false positive. In such cases, the expertise of a knowledgeable lawyer who understands this defense is invaluable. Many DUI lawyers may require additional expertise or connections to effectively handle these complex cases.

It’s crucial to recognize that various medical conditions, including those as common as birth control, can have implications on the results of a breathalyzer test. While birth control may not directly impact chemical testing, its influence on physical testing, such as standardized field sobriety tests, should not be overlooked. This underscores the importance of comprehensively understanding your medical history, including physical, mental, and biological factors, to build the strongest defense and achieve the most favorable outcome.

For more information on Evidential Tests Taken In A DUI Case, an initial consultation is your next step. Get the information and legal answers you seek by calling (415) 523-7878 today!