In Georgia, law enforcement officers are well-trained in conducting sobriety tests on suspected drunk drivers. One of the most common tests is the Breathalyzer. But how does a Breathalyzer work, and is it always reliable?
The Traffic Stop and Breathalyzer Request
During a traffic stop for suspected impairment, the officer will likely ask for a breath sample using a Portable Breath Test (PBT) device. At the jail, law enforcement will often request for another breath sample for the State’s official test from a Breathaliyzer, commonly a machine called the Intoxalizer 9000. You can refuse the State’s official test, but this refusal comes with consequences, such as license suspension.
How Does a Breathalyzer Work?
The Breathalyzer test uses two vials with chemicals that change color when alcohol is detected. When you blow into the machine, the sample reaches the first vial, causing a chemical reaction if alcohol is present. This reaction makes the photocell system in the second vial change color, producing a readout of your blood-alcohol content (BAC). The more significant the color change, the higher the BAC.
Accuracy Concerns
Breathalyzer tests are considered highly accurate. However, failure to clean or calibrate the machine between uses, issues with maintenance of the machine, or issues with the chemicals in the vials, can lead to false readings. If you’re charged with drunk driving, you have the right to question the accuracy of your BAC readout. An experienced criminal defense attorney can help challenge these results and take further actions to fight the charges.
Understanding the workings and potential flaws of Breathalyzer tests is crucial for anyone facing drunk driving charges. Remember, you have the right to challenge the evidence against you.
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