When DUI Testing Raises Questions About Accuracy
Being stopped for suspected DUI is a stressful experience, and it can become even more overwhelming when law enforcement asks you to take a breath or blood test. Most people assume these tests are always accurate, but the reality is more complicated. Whether it’s a roadside breathalyzer or a blood sample taken at the hospital, errors can and do happen. If you’re facing charges after DUI testing in Illinois, it’s important to know that these results can be challenged—and sometimes successfully thrown out.
Understanding How Breath Tests Work
Breath tests are the most commonly used tool in DUI investigations. They measure the amount of alcohol in your breath to estimate your blood alcohol content, or BAC. But this method isn’t perfect. Breathalyzers need regular calibration and proper handling to work correctly. If the device was not maintained properly or the test wasn’t given according to state procedures, the results may not be reliable. Even everyday factors like mouthwash, acid reflux, or certain diets can trigger false readings. That’s why it’s essential not to assume that a high number on a breath test automatically equals guilt.
Blood Tests Are Not Always Bulletproof
Blood tests are often considered more accurate than breath tests, but they’re not immune to error either. How the blood is collected, labeled, stored, and tested all play a part in whether the results are valid. Delays in testing or poor storage conditions can cause the blood to ferment, leading to falsely elevated alcohol levels. In some cases, there may be questions about whether the sample was yours or whether the lab followed proper chain-of-custody rules. These are real issues that a Chicago Criminal Defense Attorney can investigate when building your defense.
The Timing of the Test Matters
Alcohol takes time to be absorbed into the bloodstream, and your BAC may be rising or falling depending on when the test was taken. If your test was done an hour or more after you were driving, the results may not reflect your BAC at the time you were behind the wheel. This is especially important if your BAC was close to the legal limit. Challenging the timing of DUI testing in Illinois is one of several ways a strong defense can cast doubt on the prosecution’s case.
Police Procedures Must Be Followed
In Illinois, police officers are required to follow strict procedures when conducting DUI tests. That includes observing the driver for a certain period before testing, using properly calibrated equipment, and explaining the driver’s rights. If these protocols are not followed exactly, it could mean the test results are inadmissible in court. A skilled Chicago criminal defense attorney will carefully examine the circumstances of your arrest to see if law enforcement made any errors. In some cases, even a small mistake can lead to reduced charges or a full dismissal.
Expert Analysis Can Strengthen Your Case
Challenging DUI test results often involves more than pointing out flaws in procedure. It can also include scientific and technical arguments. This is where expert witnesses come in. DUI defense attorneys often work with toxicologists, lab technicians, or former law enforcement professionals who understand how testing works—and how it can fail. These experts can review your test results and point out issues that aren’t obvious at first glance. Their testimony can be a powerful part of your defense in court.
The Stakes Are Too High for Guesswork
A DUI conviction in Illinois can lead to serious consequences. That includes fines, license suspension, higher insurance rates, and possibly jail time. On top of that, a criminal record can hurt your reputation and limit future job opportunities. All of this makes it essential to challenge any questionable evidence, especially when it involves breath or blood test results. No one should be convicted based on flawed science or faulty procedures.
Legal Defenses That Make a Difference
Not all DUI defenses are the same, and not every case will hinge on test accuracy. But when DUI Testing Illinois is the central piece of evidence, it’s worth digging deeper. A knowledgeable Chicago criminal defense attorney can build a defense that fits your specific situation. This may involve challenging the reliability of the equipment, questioning the qualifications of the officer or technician, or pointing out inconsistencies in the arrest report. With the right strategy, it may be possible to reduce or dismiss the charges against you.
How Bernard Law PC Can Help
At Bernard Law PC, we understand how to investigate DUI test results and uncover the details that matter most. Our team takes the time to review every aspect of your case, from the stop itself to the lab results and beyond. With a strong focus on protecting your rights, we help clients fight unfair charges and navigate the court process with confidence.
Don’t Let a Test Decide Your Future
Just because a breath or blood test said you were over the limit doesn’t mean your case is closed. These tests are not perfect, and they can be challenged. Whether the device was faulty, the procedure was flawed, or the timing doesn’t add up, there are real ways to fight back. If you’ve been charged with DUI, reach out to a Chicago criminal defense attorney who understands the system and can help you protect your future. Your rights, your freedom, and your reputation are too important to leave unprotected.
