The police can ask drivers questions during traffic stops if they suspect that a driver is drunk. A driver may also be asked to do a field sobriety test, which can help the police identify signs of inebriation. However, these investigative tools do not always confirm whether a driver is drunk.
To gather clear evidence that a driver is inebriated, the police may ask a driver to submit a chemical blood test to determine their blood alcohol levels. There are three kinds:
1. Breath tests
The most common test is a breath test, conducted with a is a small machine that the police can carry in their vehicles (although they can also conduct them at the police station). Drivers will be asked to blow into a tube attached to this machine for several seconds. The machine will then evaluate the driver’s blood alcohol content (BAC).
2. Urine tests
Alternatively, the police can ask drivers to relocate to a police station or hospital to submit a urine test. The driver will urinate in a cup, which will then be tested. The results will identify the driver’s BAC levels.
3. Blood tests
Much like a urine test, a blood test will be done at a safe and sanitary location. The drivers will have their blood drawn. The blood will be tested to reveal the driver’s BAC levels.
Which one is the most accurate?
Out of the three tests, breath tests are the most commonly taken. That’s often because drivers can submit to the test during a traffic stop without relocating. However, blood tests are considered the most accurate of the three.
Mistakes can happen during blood alcohol tests. If you believe you were wrongly accused of drunk driving, then it can help to reach out for legal guidance.