When an officer pulls over a driver they suspect of driving while intoxicated, the most common method to determine whether to make an arrest for DUI is by administering a field sobriety test. The most popular field sobriety test is a breath test, and the results show a level of alcohol in your system over the legal limit, you will be arrested and charged with DUI. The consequences range from loss of license, to the requirement that you enter a term of probation which might include the need to have an interlock device installed in your car. There will also be fines and penalties to pay, and all of these things can have a significant impact on your daily life. This is why it is so important to understand how the process works.
In Florida, you can be charged with DUI if your blood alcohol level is 0.08% or more. Three things to know about DUI breath tests, and how the results can be impacted, include:
- Whether you are taking any prescriptions, or have any other substances in your system that gives off a false positive.
- Whether the testing equipment has been properly maintained, if it has not there is a chance that the machine may malfunction. The test results from a malfunctioning machine are likely to be unreliable and should not be used in your case.
- Whether the test was administered by a properly trained officer. If the person giving the test lacks the required training, it is possible for the test results to be inaccurate.
Any of these factors could cause the results in your case to be invalid. It is crucial to explore every avenue, so you can develop a defense strategy that works. A qualified DUI defense attorney will know where to look for facts that are beneficial to your case, and will also know how to present those facts favorably. We have experience defending people for DUI, and can help you too. Contact our office today to learn more, and allow us to help you come up with a defense that fits the facts.
For more information about how to defend a DUI, call an experienced defense attorney in Stuart and the Treasure Coast. We offer an initial consultation for no charge, and look forward to working with you.