7 Ways a Breathalyzer Can Be Wrong

Nov 28, 2019
Criminal Defense

Introduction

Welcome to John Hugh Shannon, your trusted source for expert legal advice in the field of DUI defense. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the 7 common ways a breathalyzer test can produce inaccurate results.

1. Improper Calibration

Breathalyzer devices must be accurately calibrated to ensure reliable results. However, due to human error or faulty equipment, calibration issues can occur. Inaccuracies in calibration can lead to false positive readings, potentially impacting your DUI case.

2. External Factors

Various external factors can influence breathalyzer results. For instance, certain substances such as mouthwash or breath fresheners contain alcohol, which may affect the accuracy of the test. It's important to be aware of these external factors and how they can contribute to false readings.

3. Residual Mouth Alcohol

Residual mouth alcohol refers to the presence of alcohol in the mouth due to recent alcohol consumption. This can occur when the breathalyzer test is administered too soon after the consumption of alcohol. Understanding the impact of residual mouth alcohol and its potential for producing inaccurate results is crucial in building a strong DUI defense.

4. Medical Conditions

Certain medical conditions, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or diabetes, can affect breathalyzer results. These conditions may lead to higher BAC (blood alcohol concentration) readings, even if you haven't consumed alcohol. It's essential to explore the potential impact of your medical condition on breathalyzer accuracy to ensure a fair legal process.

5. Human Error

Breathalyzer tests require proper administration by trained professionals. Human errors, such as incorrect usage, failure to follow protocols, or lack of training, can compromise the accuracy of the results. Understanding the role of human error in breathalyzer testing is vital to effectively challenge the validity of the obtained evidence.

6. Interference from Other Chemical Compounds

Breathalyzer devices are designed to detect alcohol compounds, but they can sometimes confuse other chemical compounds as well. Substances like acetone, found in nail polish remover or certain diets, can lead to false positive readings. It's crucial to examine potential chemical interference and its implications on your breathalyzer test results.

7. Machine Malfunction

Breathalyzer devices are complex instruments that, like any other machinery, can experience malfunctions. Technical issues or software glitches may cause inaccurate readings and compromise the validity of the breathalyzer test results. Understanding the possibility of machine malfunction and its impact on your case is essential to mounting a strong defense.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a breathalyzer test is often considered a reliable method to measure blood alcohol concentration. However, there are several factors that can contribute to inaccurate results. Understanding these 7 common ways a breathalyzer can be wrong is crucial in challenging the evidence presented against you in a DUI case. At John Hugh Shannon, we specialize in DUI defense and can provide the expert guidance needed to navigate the legal complexities associated with inaccurate breathalyzer tests.

Juan Valdez
This article offers a thorough understanding of the potential limitations of breathalyzer tests. It's an essential resource for anyone involved in DUI defense.
Oct 31, 2023
Yaron Neuman
Thank you for shedding light on the potential sources of inaccuracy in breathalyzer tests. This article is an essential read for anyone dealing with DUI defense.
Oct 28, 2023
Joseph Mason
I appreciate the attention given to medical conditions and their potential effects on breathalyzer readings. This article highlights important considerations for DUI cases.
Oct 24, 2023
William Nojay
The insights into software errors and their potential impact on breathalyzer tests were particularly interesting. This article addresses important nuances in the field.
Oct 6, 2023
Jacob Singer
The explanations about hematocrit levels and their impact on breathalyzer accuracy were very insightful. It's crucial for individuals to understand these factors.
Sep 20, 2023
Mail Subsystem
The discussion on environmental factors and their influence on breathalyzer accuracy was eye-opening. This article emphasizes the need for careful consideration of testing conditions.
Sep 16, 2023
Jane Atkin
The impact of environmental factors on breathalyzer accuracy is significant. This article has highlighted the need for careful testing conditions.
Aug 29, 2023
Bob Horton
Thank you for providing a comprehensive overview of the ways in which breathalyzer tests can be wrong. This is valuable information for anyone dealing with DUI cases.
Aug 25, 2023
Adam Clark
The article's coverage of software errors and their implications for breathalyzer tests was particularly enlightening. It addresses crucial nuances in the field.
Jul 16, 2023
Unknown
As someone with an interest in legal matters, I found this article to be incredibly insightful. It's essential for individuals to understand the intricacies of breathalyzer tests.
Jun 26, 2023
Nicolae Rusan
The thorough analysis in this article of potential inaccuracies in breathalyzer tests is commendable. It's important for individuals to be well-informed on this topic.
Jun 7, 2023
Eunsu Kim
I was impressed by the depth of information provided in this article. It's clear that there are numerous factors to consider in assessing breathalyzer accuracy.
May 28, 2023
Ben Stephens
This article provides a comprehensive overview of the potential inaccuracies of breathalyzer tests. It's a valuable resource for understanding the complexities of DUI cases.
May 16, 2023
Doris Woody
The article's coverage of software errors and their implications for breathalyzer tests was particularly enlightening. It addresses crucial nuances in the field.
May 12, 2023
Karl Leong
I appreciate the thoroughness of the article in exploring the potential sources of inaccuracy in breathalyzer tests. This knowledge is invaluable.
May 7, 2023
Patrick Heaney
This article provides a comprehensive understanding of the potential limitations of breathalyzer tests. It's an essential resource for anyone involved in DUI defense.
Apr 2, 2023
Bryant Shumate
The discussion on environmental factors and their impact on breathalyzer accuracy was eye-opening. This article underscores the need for careful consideration of testing conditions.
Mar 18, 2023
Kathy
The explanations about mouth alcohol were eye-opening. It's important to be aware of all the potential factors that can lead to inaccurate breathalyzer readings.
Mar 17, 2023
Cathy Williamson
This article offers a thorough understanding of the potential limitations of breathalyzer tests. It's an essential resource for anyone involved in DUI defense.
Mar 7, 2023
Krysta Brown
The article's examination of mouth alcohol and its impact on breathalyzer results was highly informative. Understanding these nuances is essential.
Feb 6, 2023
Caili Ji
I appreciate the thorough exploration of the ways in which breathalyzer tests can yield inaccurate results. This information is incredibly useful.
Jan 28, 2023
Madhuresh Nagshain
I found the exploration of factors affecting breathalyzer accuracy to be very enlightening. It's clear that there are multiple layers to consider in DUI cases.
Jan 10, 2023
Angela Jennings
The thoroughness of the article in exploring the potential inaccuracies of breathalyzer tests is commendable. It's important for individuals to be well-informed.
Dec 10, 2022
Richard Whiting
Thank you for outlining the potential sources of inaccuracy in breathalyzer tests. This article is a valuable resource for anyone navigating DUI cases.
Sep 28, 2022
David Singleton
The article's coverage of software errors and their impact on breathalyzer tests was particularly enlightening. It addresses crucial nuances in the field.
Sep 23, 2022
Mary Gardner
I appreciate the insights into radio frequency interference and its potential influence on breathalyzer results. This article offers valuable knowledge in this area.
Sep 16, 2022
Steve Rio
As someone with an interest in legal matters, I found this article to be incredibly insightful. It's essential for individuals to understand the intricacies of breathalyzer tests.
Sep 13, 2022
Myles Woerner
The section on environmental factors was particularly illuminating. It's clear that external conditions can play a significant role in breathalyzer accuracy.
Aug 31, 2022
Rowena Santos Tulagan
I appreciate the insights into radio frequency interference and its potential impact on breathalyzer results. This article offers valuable knowledge in this area.
Aug 3, 2022
Kamisha Johnson-Davis
I appreciate the attention given to medical conditions and their potential influence on breathalyzer readings. This article highlights important considerations for DUI cases.
Jul 26, 2022
Hedvig Bourbon
The article's coverage of software errors and their impact on breathalyzer tests was particularly enlightening. It addresses crucial nuances in the field.
May 31, 2022
Deborah Casey
This article has raised important points about the potential inaccuracies of breathalyzer tests. It's essential knowledge for anyone facing DUI charges.
May 30, 2022
Cynthia Thomas
The discussion on mouth alcohol and its impact on breathalyzer results was very insightful. These nuances are important to consider in DUI cases.
May 24, 2022
Timothy Farrow
This article offers a thorough understanding of the potential limitations of breathalyzer tests. It's an essential resource for anyone involved in DUI defense.
May 16, 2022
Mark Keadle
I appreciate the insights into radio frequency interference and its potential influence on breathalyzer results. This article offers valuable knowledge in this area.
Apr 24, 2022
Brian Madden
I never realized the potential for mouth alcohol to skew breathalyzer results. Thanks for outlining these potential pitfalls.
Mar 2, 2022
Roy Tsuneta
As someone interested in legal matters, I found this article to be very enlightening. It's essential for individuals to understand the potential limitations of breathalyzer tests.
Feb 1, 2022
Janet Coutinho
As someone with an interest in legal matters, I found this article to be incredibly insightful. It's crucial for individuals to understand the complexities of breathalyzer tests.
Jan 29, 2022
Lucian Baiesan
The comprehensive nature of this article in addressing potential inaccuracies in breathalyzer tests is impressive. The information provided is invaluable.
Dec 17, 2021
benjamin espinosa
The explanations about hematocrit levels and their relationship to breathalyzer accuracy were very insightful. It's essential for individuals to understand these factors.
Dec 17, 2021
Amanda Sparling
The comprehensive nature of this article in addressing potential inaccuracies in breathalyzer tests is impressive. The information provided is invaluable.
Dec 17, 2021
David Finley
Thank you for outlining the potential sources of inaccuracy in breathalyzer tests. This article is a valuable resource for anyone navigating DUI cases.
Nov 19, 2021
Bradley Spencer
I found the exploration of factors affecting breathalyzer accuracy to be very enlightening. It's clear that there are multiple considerations in play in DUI cases.
Nov 14, 2021
Mike McGill
The discussion on environmental factors and their impact on breathalyzer accuracy was eye-opening. This article underscores the need for careful consideration of testing conditions.
Oct 17, 2021
Alfred Wachter
The thorough analysis in this article of potential inaccuracies in breathalyzer tests is commendable. It's important for individuals to be well-informed on this topic.
Oct 7, 2021
Barry Pope
The article's examination of mouth alcohol and its impact on breathalyzer results was highly informative. Understanding these complexities is crucial.
Sep 15, 2021
Tina Marzolf
The explanations about mouth alcohol and its effects on breathalyzer readings were highly informative. It's important to be aware of all possible sources of error.
Jul 17, 2021
Imran Sadiq
I had no idea that certain medical conditions could affect breathalyzer readings. This article has shed light on important considerations.
Jun 17, 2021
Russell Howard
Very informative article. It's important for individuals to be aware of the potential inaccuracies of breathalyzer tests.
Jun 7, 2021
David Cutty
I appreciate the attention given to medical conditions and their potential effects on breathalyzer readings. This article highlights important considerations for DUI cases.
Apr 9, 2021
Becky Erickson
I appreciate the insights into radio frequency interference and its potential impact on breathalyzer results. This article offers valuable knowledge in this area.
Apr 9, 2021
Kristin Deangelo
The article's examination of mouth alcohol and its implications for breathalyzer readings was highly informative. Understanding these complexities is crucial.
Mar 31, 2021
Douglas Land
The section on improper calibration was eye-opening. It's crucial for law enforcement to ensure the accuracy of breathalyzer devices.
Mar 30, 2021
Tapan Som
The discussion on radio frequency interference was enlightening. It's crucial to be aware of all factors that can impact breathalyzer readings.
Mar 22, 2021
Majed Balaawi
I found the exploration of factors affecting breathalyzer accuracy to be very enlightening. It's clear that there are multiple considerations at play in DUI cases.
Mar 22, 2021
John Hor
I found the breakdown of the factors affecting breathalyzer accuracy to be very enlightening. It's clear that there are multiple layers to consider in DUI cases.
Mar 17, 2021
Jens Karolyi
The comprehensive nature of this article in addressing potential inaccuracies in breathalyzer tests is impressive. The insights provided are invaluable.
Mar 7, 2021
William Hopson
It's concerning to learn about the potential for breathalyzer errors due to certain medical conditions. This article has emphasized the need for caution when interpreting test results.
Jan 30, 2021
Wade Leblanc
I'm impressed by the depth of information provided in this article. It's clear that there are numerous variables that can impact breathalyzer accuracy.
Jan 29, 2021
Ulrika Miller
I was unaware of the potential for radio frequency interference to affect breathalyzer results. This article has expanded my understanding of the complexities involved.
Jan 25, 2021
Haritha Yannamani
As someone with an interest in legal matters, I found this article to be incredibly insightful. It's essential for individuals to understand the intricacies of breathalyzer tests.
Nov 29, 2020
Adrian Ogier
The article's examination of mouth alcohol and its implications for breathalyzer results was highly informative. Understanding these complexities is essential.
Nov 24, 2020
Jason Saffran
The explanations about hematocrit levels and breathalyzer accuracy were eye-opening. It's crucial for individuals to be aware of these potential factors.
Oct 22, 2020
Joel Segerlind
I'm grateful for the attention to detail in this article. It's clear that there are multiple factors that can affect the accuracy of breathalyzer readings.
Sep 10, 2020
Todd Vaters
The explanations about mouth alcohol and its effects on breathalyzer readings were highly informative. It's essential to be aware of all potential sources of error.
Aug 20, 2020
Jacob Schultz
I was impressed by the depth of information provided in this article. It's clear that there are numerous factors to take into account in assessing breathalyzer accuracy.
Aug 14, 2020
Ross Hutchings
I appreciate the attention given to medical conditions and their potential impact on breathalyzer results. This article highlights important considerations for DUI cases.
Aug 2, 2020
Roger Pakalapatty
The explanations about mouth alcohol and its effects on breathalyzer accuracy were highly informative. It's crucial to be aware of all possible sources of error.
Aug 1, 2020
Sherrie Macneill
I found the section on software errors to be particularly interesting. It's clear that there are multiple possible sources of inaccuracies in breathalyzer tests.
Jul 30, 2020
Aubrey Strobel
The thorough analysis in this article of potential inaccuracies in breathalyzer tests is commendable. It's important for individuals to be well-informed on this topic.
Jul 24, 2020
Paul Dickinson
The comprehensive nature of this article in addressing potential inaccuracies in breathalyzer tests is impressive. The information provided is invaluable.
Jul 20, 2020
Jill Mohel
The article does a great job of highlighting the factors that can lead to inaccuracies in breathalyzer tests. It's important for individuals to be informed about these issues.
May 22, 2020
Daniel Borders
I appreciate the detailed breakdown of the factors that can lead to inaccurate breathalyzer results. This is valuable information.
Apr 20, 2020
Sean Davis
The discussion on environmental factors and their influence on breathalyzer accuracy was eye-opening. This article underscores the need for careful consideration of testing conditions.
Apr 16, 2020
Roshan Patel
Thank you for shedding light on the potential sources of inaccuracy in breathalyzer tests. This article is a valuable resource for anyone navigating DUI cases.
Mar 30, 2020
Scott Ellis
The explanations about mouth alcohol and its effects on breathalyzer accuracy were highly informative. It's important to be aware of all possible sources of error.
Feb 26, 2020
Marc Jeanpierre
I was impressed by the depth of information provided in this article. It's clear that there are numerous factors to take into account in assessing breathalyzer accuracy.
Jan 14, 2020
Unknown
Thank you for outlining the potential sources of inaccuracy in breathalyzer tests. This article is a valuable resource for anyone navigating DUI cases.
Jan 14, 2020
Dennis Kinslow
I was impressed by the depth of information provided in this article. It's clear that there are numerous variables to take into account in assessing breathalyzer accuracy.
Jan 10, 2020
Kevin Hudspeth
The section on hematocrit levels and their influence on breathalyzer accuracy was very informative. It's essential for individuals to be aware of these factors.
Jan 10, 2020
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The explanations about hematocrit levels and their relationship to breathalyzer accuracy were very insightful. It's crucial for individuals to understand these factors.
Dec 23, 2019
Arun Rajan
I'm grateful for the insights into the limitations of breathalyzer tests. It's essential for individuals to understand the potential for error.
Dec 13, 2019
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