4 Sources of Breathalyzer Inaccuracy
In order to prevent traffic accidents caused by drunk drivers, states have passed laws prohibiting this dangerous behavior. These laws typically identify drivers as intoxicated if they have a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08 or higher. To objectively determine whether a driver is intoxicated, a law enforcement official may ask them to submit to a breathalyzer test, which measures BAC. Unfortunately, a number of issues with these types of tests may result in false or misleading results.
If you or someone you know has been arrested for DUI based on the results of a breathalyzer test, you should seek legal representation immediately. Contact Rhode Island DUI defense lawyer James Powderly at 401-662-9006 today to discuss your case and learn more about how you can defend yourself against this damaging accusation.
Causes of Breathalyzer Errors
Breathalyzers work by measuring the alcohol content in an individual’s breath, rather than their blood. For this reason, they may not give an accurate measurement of a person’s actual blood alcohol content. Other common issues related to breathalyzer accuracy include:
- Improper machine calibration
- Sensitivity to ambient temperatures
- Inaccurate lung air alcohol concentration to BAC conversions
- Identifying non-alcoholic chemical compounds as alcoholic
A skilled and experienced drunk driving lawyer can help you to challenge the validity of the evidence used against you if there is reason to believe that it may be inaccurate. If this is the sole basis of the case against you, charges might be dismissed outright.
Contact Us
Being arrested for DUI can be a frightening experience. However, the evidence on which your arrest was based may be compromised. Contact Rhode Island DUI defense attorney James Powderly today at 401-662-9006 to speak with an experienced legal professional and begin formulating your defense.




