If the police pulled you over and asked you to take a DUI breath test, you might assume the results are always correct. However, there are several factors that can cause a breath test to give inaccurate readings. Understanding these factors can help you know what to do if you think the test was wrong.
How breath tests work
Breath tests are designed to measure the amount of alcohol in your breath, which is then used to estimate your blood alcohol concentration (BAC). The device converts the amount of alcohol in your breath to a BAC reading. If this number is above the legal limit, it can result in a DUI charge.
Factors that affect accuracy
Breath tests can be influenced by several factors that may cause incorrect readings. One major factor is the calibration of the breath test device. If the machine isn’t maintained or calibrated correctly, it might not give an accurate result. Calibration ensures the device is reading alcohol levels correctly, and a poorly calibrated device can lead to false readings.
Medical conditions and substances
Certain medical conditions can also affect breath test results. Acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can cause alcohol from the stomach to mix with your breath, leading to a higher BAC reading. Diabetes can also play a role. If blood sugar levels are too high, the body produces acetone, which can be mistaken for alcohol by some breath test devices.
Mouth alcohol can also cause problems. If you recently used mouthwash or any product containing alcohol, the test may give a falsely high reading. This alcohol stays in your mouth for a short time and isn’t related to how much you drank.
Environmental factors
Environmental factors can interfere with breath test accuracy as well. Fumes from certain chemicals, like paint or cleaning products, may affect the breath test’s readings. These chemicals can create false positives if the test is conducted in an area with high concentrations of fumes.
DUI breath tests are not always foolproof and can produce incorrect results. Many factors can lead to false readings. Understanding these potential errors can help you challenge an inaccurate test result if needed.