Your DUI sobriety test defense strategy must remember that these tests are not infallible. Inaccuracies and improper procedures can create strong grounds for defense. Therefore, it’s crucial to consult a criminal defense attorney skilled at addressing the common challenges.

 

What You Should Know About Field Sobriety Tests

 

Field sobriety tests are a series of physical and cognitive tasks law enforcement uses to assess a driver’s impairment. Typical DUI sobriety tests include:

 

• Breathalyzer
• Walk-and-turn (WAT)
• One-leg stand (OLS)
• Horizontal gaze nystagmus (HGN)

 

While these tests are intended to evaluate balance, coordination, and attention, they’re also highly subjective and prone to error. Key issues include physical limitations, environmental factors, and law enforcement judgments. For example, a person’s health or poor lighting can leave room for bias or misinterpretation.

 

An experienced DUI sobriety tests defense attorney can question the conditions under which the field sobriety tests were conducted. They can also inquire about the officer’s training and experience in administrating these tests. For more information, schedule an appointment with the Dornan Law Team.

 

Breathalyzer Tests: How Reliable Are They?

 

Breathalyzer machines are designed to measure blood alcohol concentration (BAC) through breath samples. These devices may seem scientific and accurate, but they are far from foolproof. Factors that can compromise results include:

 

• Calibration Errors
• Mouth Alcohol
• Medical Conditions
• Medications
• Timing

 

Breathalyzer testing equipment requires regular maintenance and calibration to ensure reliable readings. Meanwhile, residual alcohol from mouthwash, breath spray, or recent drinks can falsely inflate BAC levels. In some cases, factors such as acid reflux, diabetes, or medications can interfere with the results.

 

It’s important to note that alcohol absorption varies, so a field sobriety test taken shortly after drinking might not accurately reflect your BAC when driving. A skilled DUI sobriety test defense attorney can request maintenance records for the device, investigate procedural errors, and explore alternative explanations for the inaccurate breathalyzer reading.

 

Field Sobriety Test Defense Strategies

 

Field sobriety tests and breathalyzer tests must be conducted according to strict protocols. Law enforcement should explain and demonstrate each task clearly, for example. Also, breathalyzer tests require specific waiting periods and proper equipment handling. Any deviation from these protocols can invalidate the results.

 

Another DUI sobriety test defense strategy involves questioning the officer’s observations. Some symptoms, such as bloodshot eyes or slurred speech, can be caused by fatigue, allergies, or stress. A criminal defense attorney can challenge these suppositions and interpretations in court.

 

Defense attorneys might even question the scientific reliability of field sobriety tests and breathalyzer devices. They can introduce external factors, environmental conditions, or health issues that may have affected the test’s outcome.

 

Tips for Hiring an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney

 

Navigating a DUI case on your own can be daunting and dangerous, especially when dealing with complex technical evidence. A field sobriety test defense attorney will help make it easier by analyzing evidence, challenging procedures, and negotiating on your behalf. They can review police reports, bodycam footage, and test records to build a strong defense.

 

If DUI tests were not conducted properly or the equipment was faulty, criminal defense attorneys can bring that to the court’s attention for consideration. The Dornan Law Team can even file motions to exclude evidence, reduce charges, or appeal for alternative sentencing, depending on the circumstances.

 

Fight DUI Charges with a DUI Sobriety Test Defense Attorney

 

A DUI conviction can have serious consequences, including fines, license suspension, probation, community service, and jail time. But beyond the legal penalties, it can affect your reputation, career, and personal life. That’s why challenging flawed evidence and working with a field criminal defense attorney is crucial. Ensure your rights remain protected, no matter the charges.

 

Contact a qualified field sobriety test defense attorney at the Dornan Law Team today to discuss your case. The sooner you seek legal guidance, the better your chances of achieving a positive resolution.