Misinformation about the law is abundant. Stories that sound credible might actually be entirely false. People with good intentions sometimes share inaccurate information that can lead to complications for others.
For example, it is relatively common for people to claim that there are ways to manipulate the results of chemical breath testing. One of the most common tactics people recommend is to keep pennies in a vehicle. Well-meaning people tell others to suck on pennies if a traffic stop occurs after a motorist has consumed alcohol.
Contrary to what people claim, sucking on pocket change will not prevent a driving under the influence (DUI) charge.
Pennies don’t alter body chemistry
Some people claim that pennies help alter chemical breath test results due to their copper content. However, modern pennies minted after 1982 do not contain high levels of copper anymore. There is also no credible scientific research validating the claim that copper in the mouth at the time of a breath test impacts the chemical analysis.
Not only is the tip itself inaccurate, but it could potentially draw the scrutiny of a police officer. Most police officers have heard about the so-called “penny hack” before. If they notice people putting coins in their mouth or hear them sucking on them during a traffic stop, that may give them reason to believe that the driver has had alcohol previously.
There are many reasons that breath tests may return inaccurate results and even false positives. Drivers may be able to fight their charges in some cases. Reviewing medical records and the state’s evidence with a skilled legal team can help people develop strong defense strategies when facing DUI charges.
