Most people struggle to evaluate their own level of intoxication after drinking. People who are visibly drunk to others might think that they are sober enough to drive.
Responsible adults who regularly enjoy alcohol may want to take steps to limit their risks of drunk driving charges. Purchasing a personal breath test or pocket breathalyzer can help people validate their blood alcohol concentration (BAC) before they attempt to drive. Can a pocket testing unit eliminate the risk of a drunk driving charge?
Breath tests aren’t entirely accurate
The unfortunate reality for those considering a pocket breath test as a source of personal protection is that no device is 100% accurate. Personal testing units could represent an increased risk of inaccurate results, as individuals may not have the equipment necessary to maintain and properly calibrate their testing devices.
A driver trying to comply with the law could pass a test they administer to themselves before leaving a bar or restaurant and then fail a breath test administered by a police officer. The sooner an individual tests after they stop drinking, the greater the likelihood that their BAC could continue rising even after they get behind the wheel. Calibration issues, outdated software and rising BAC all limit the protection extended by pocket breath tests.
However, a driver who can show they made a good faith effort to avoid drunk driving may have better chances of successfully defending against their charges. Reviewing test results and other evidence with a drunk driving defense attorney can help motorists respond effectively if they fail a test after validating that they were safe to drive.
