Uniontown BAC Testing Attorney

Everything You Need to Know About BAC Tests – DUI Defense

In Pennsylvania, specifically within Fayette county, law enforcement is permitted to use three distinct methods to conduct Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) tests. It is up to the individual police department to select the specific testing method they wish to employ. The three primary parameters for testing include:

• Breath – This is the primary method utilized across the area. It is widely considered one of the easiest tests to administer in the field or at the station. Officers typically use a specific breath machine known as the EC/IR II, which is manufactured by Intoximeters, Inc. It is important to note that the EC/IR II is sold exclusively to government agencies and law enforcement, meaning it is not available for purchase by individuals for private use.
• Blood – This method is generally regarded as the most accurate way to determine intoxication levels. For this test, blood is drawn at a local hospital or medical facility and subsequently sent to the State Police Crime Lab for analysis.
• Urine – This is considered the least accurate method of the three and is not utilized as frequently. In some cases, it may be administered alongside a secondary test to help verify the accuracy of the results.

Holding a driver’s license in Pennsylvania means you have legally given “implied consent” to submit to a chemical test for determining BAC if you are ever pulled over by police and suspected of driving under the influence.

However, failing a chemical test does not automatically mean you are out of options or that a conviction is guaranteed. A skilled Uniontown criminal lawyer will play a critical role in attempting to invalidate the test results. If you submitted to a breath test, your counsel can investigate whether the machine was properly calibrated or prove that it was functioning incorrectly. They may dig deeper to determine if the test was administered strictly according to guidelines, looking for factors that could cause false positive readings, such as the use of mouthwash, the presence of decaying food particles, or interactions with certain medications.

An experienced legal Uniontown DUI attorney understands how a blood test can be influenced by various external and internal factors, such as acid reflux or if an individual works with specific chemicals daily. They will also meticulously check if the authorities followed the chain of custody for the evidence. Any mishandling during the blood collection or storage process may destroy the validity of the test, making it inadmissible in DUI court.

Is It Possible to Refuse BAC Testing?

Yes, you are legally permitted to refuse chemical or breath testing. However, doing so will not necessarily save you from legal trouble; the most likely immediate consequence is a prolonged suspension of your driver’s license. Unless you have a specific, valid legal excuse, it is generally not recommended to refuse BAC testing. If you do choose to decline a chemical or breath test, ensure you state your request politely. You must never argue, fight, or be aggressive with a police officer when requesting the refusal of these tests.

Steps to Take Following a DUI Arrest

If you have been arrested and charged with a DUI, try to get in touch with your Uniontown DUI attorney immediately. 

An Uniontown criminal lawyer  will examine the specific events that occurred during the arrest to ensure that all police procedures were followed correctly. Furthermore, they will scrutinize the way the BAC testing was performed and figure out potential avenues for having your case dismissed.If you or a loved one are facing DUI charges, contact the Logue Law Group at 844.PITT.DUIto schedule a consultation. We will help you navigate the complexities of these legal proceedings and recommend the best course of action. The expertise and skills of our Uniontown criminal lawyer will help you evade the possibilities of long-term trouble that may arise as a consequence of the case.