During a driving under the influence (DUI) traffic stop, drivers are often eager to demonstrate their cooperation with law enforcement and prove that they weren’t drunk. Sometimes, police officers witness innocent behaviors in traffic, such as swerving to avoid a pothole or a small animal, and assume that the driver was under the influence.
Other times, racial profiling, the appearance of a vehicle or even a driver’s presence near a popular bar could raise questions about their sobriety. Many drivers agree to submit to chemical testing because they expect the results to show that they are well under the legal limit.
Unfortunately, some motorists end up surprised by test results and get arrested.
Why are roadside test results often inaccurate?
There are many reasons why chemical testing during a traffic stop may not be as accurate as people expect. Issues with the testing device are more common than motorists might realize.
Perhaps the local police department has gone weeks without calibrating the testing unit or performing other critical maintenance. Something as simple as outdated software could compromise the accuracy of test results.
Other times, conduct on the part of the driver can affect testing accuracy. The use of certain medications or a specialized diet could result in artificially high breath test results. Even the use of a breath spray or mouthwash shortly before a test could artificially increase the test results. Drivers arrested after a test that they thought would exonerate them may need help exploring different DUI defense strategies.
Discussing what happened during a traffic stop and concerns about breath test accuracy with a DUI defense attorney can help motorists understand their options. Proper legal guidance can make a major difference for drivers facing DUI charges backed by questionable test results.