The relative low rates for accidents, injuries and fatalities due to drunk driving can make motorists feel safer on the road but can also be a flag for drivers. Law enforcement officials have made cracking down on drunk driving a priority. This is evidenced in the numbers as in the basic laws, such as the requirement for anyone convicted of a DUI in Arizona to install an ignition interlock device. This law is commonly referred to as the "All Offense Interlock Law" and was passed in 2007.

Ensuring public safety is a noble cause indeed but, in the process, the opportunity for some people to be incorrectly accused can arise.

Inaccuracies in DUI testing

There are three basic types of testing that police officers utilize to determine whether or not to arrest a driver for driving while under the influence. The first type of testing is conducted at the site where the driver has been stopped by police. This involves a series of tests commonly referred to as field sobriety tests.

In field sobriety tests, officers measure the responsiveness of drivers and the accuracy with which they are able to execute basic tasks. These involve following a specific pattern with the eye, walking along a designated line and turning around and balancing on one leg for an identified period of time. For some people, these tasks can be difficult at any time or location as some medical conditions can interfere with balance, for example.

If a person is deemed to have "failed" the field sobriety tests, they are asked to participate in breathalyzer testing to more scientifically determine intoxication. The requirements regarding administration of this type of test are very specific, including a set amount of time to wait before conducting the test. A person's breathing pattern, which can be affected by nerves, can influence the readings on this test.

Blood tests are the most scientific way to measure blood alcohol content yet are still not 100 percent accurate in all cases. The handling and storing of vials can interfere with results as can some diseases or even the existing of some supplements in the bloodstream.

All drivers deserve fair testing and process

The law requires that all people accused of any crime be allowed fair treatment and process. If a DUI test has not been properly managed or is potentially inaccurate for some other reason, arrested drivers could have a useful line of defense. Contacting an experienced DUI attorney is highly recommended in these situations. The penalties and consequences are too great to not enlist professional help.

Article provided by Suzuki Law Offices, L.L.C. Visit us at duilawyerinphoenix.net/