A driving under the influence (DUI) charge does not always result from intoxication. While breath tests aim to detect alcohol, several outside factors may interfere with the results and create confusion. In Minneapolis, law enforcement relies on the DataMaster machine, the state’s version of the breathalyzer, to measure blood alcohol levels during police stops.
Despite this, you may still face a DUI accusation even if you have not consumed any alcoholic beverages. By learning what may influence breath alcohol test outcomes, you can stay informed of the risks and become better prepared on how to respond when accused.
Faulty devices can distort results
Breath test devices measure alcohol levels, but their accuracy depends on proper functioning. Without regular maintenance, these machines may fail to deliver accurate readings. A device may give false results because of:
- Outdated calibration
- Internal malfunction
- Software glitches
- Improper storage
If you can demonstrate that a defect affected your test, even a minor one, it can have a significant impact on your case.
Underlying health conditions can affect interpretations
Some health problems may resemble signs of impairment and even interfere with your breath or field sobriety tests. These include:
- Vertigo: This causes dizziness and may lead you to stumble or sway.
- Diabetes: This lowers your blood sugar and may result in slurred speech or confusion.
- Acid reflux: This brings alcohol into your mouth and may affect your breath tests.
As a result, officers might mistake your symptoms for intoxication, complicating your roadside evaluation.
Common household items may interfere with testing
Mouthwash and breath sprays may contain alcohol, which can affect the results of breath tests. If you used these products shortly before testing, they may yield false blood alcohol content (BAC) results. Other everyday items that may also interfere with your results include:
- Cough syrup
Hand sanitizer
Breath strips
Certain toothpastes
Because these products produce short-term effects, such as temporary alcohol vapor exposure or residual traces in the mouth, your breath test readings may temporarily increase.
Procedural errors may also affect your case
Officers must follow specific procedures during a DUI stop. Otherwise, their mistakes can lead to false readings that impact the outcome of a case. Additionally, a lack of training can cause serious procedural errors, such as:
- Misreading test results
- Mishandling equipment
- Rushing field sobriety tests
- Ignoring preexisting health conditions
If these errors occurred during your arrest, you may be facing a wrongful DUI accusation.
Question every test result
Many factors may lead to a false DUI arrest in Minneapolis. Because of the risks involved, it’s essential to approach every DUI accusation with urgency and seek help. By reaching out to someone with the right experience, you gain access to meaningful support and a better understanding of the steps to take next.
