About Blood Alcohol Tests
Blood alcohol content or BAC, is a commonly used standard of measurement to determine the degree to which a person is likely intoxicated. This is accomplished by calculating the ratio of the volume of alcohol in the body to the volume of blood in the body. It is typically represented as a percentage of parts per million of alcohol to blood. In many situations, a person’s BAC is calculated through the use of a breathalyzer test. This type of test, which analyzes the percentage of alcohol in the moisture of a suspect’s breath, can often be inaccurate because it determines percentages based on the average person and not the individual person. Blood alcohol tests, though more invasive, are a more accurate measure to determine an individual’s BAC.
If you have been arrested and charged with DUI or related offenses, you need an experienced and knowledgeable defense attorney to handle your case. Contact Rhode Island DUI defense attorney James Powderly today by calling 401-662-9006.
How A Blood Alcohol Test Is Performed
Blood alcohol test are performed for a more accurate BAC calculation. This procedure requires that a blood sample be taken by a health professional or a specially trained officer of the law. The following steps will be taken in drawing blood.
- First, blood flow to your lower arm will be stopped by wrapping your upper arm with an elastic band.
- The needle site created by increased vein size will be cleaned.
- The needle is then stuck into the vein. This may require multiple attempts.
- A tube is attached to the needle to draw the blood out of the vein.
- The band on the upper arm will be removed when enough blood has been drawn to make a complete sample.
- The needle site will then be covered by gauze.
- Pressure and a bandage will be applied to the needle site.
These steps are necessary to perform a complete and accurate blood alcohol test. The blood that is drawn can then be tested for the volume of alcohol in the blood. Mistakes at any point in this process or in the subsequent handling and testing can compromise the validity of a blood alcohol test and may be sufficient grounds for dismissal of the charges against you.
Contact Us
A DUI conviction can cost you your freedom, your reputation, your driver’s license, and much more.. For assistance with your case, contact Rhode Island DUI defense attorney James Powderly today by calling 401-662-9006.
