The accuracy and reliability of a breathalyzer test is one way to challenge a drunk driving charge. There are a variety of ways to shape a criminal defense response to drunk driving charges and accused individuals should be familiar with all of them.
Individuals accused of a DUI face stiff penalties and consequences that can follow them for a lifetime. Breathalyzer tests measure the blood alcohol content of the accused individual and may be used by authorities to determine that the accused individual is over the legal limit for alcohol. The charges they face can result in jail time, fines, license suspension or revocation and other possible penalties as well.
A breathalyzer test may be used to charge the accused individual with drunk driving, which is why it is important to know how to challenge the results of a breathalyzer test. If there are problems with its accuracy because of the maintenance of the equipment or the police officer’s ability to administer it reliably, the test may be challenged. Breathalyzer tests must be properly calibrated and maintained according to regular, set intervals. Additionally, police officers administering them must be trained how to properly administer a breathalyzer test.
If either of these problems exists, the court may not view the result of the test as accurate or reliable to sustain the charges against the accused individual. Knowing what options are available when an individual has been charged with a DUI is vital to help them deal with everything they are facing and fight the charges they are accused of.