Breathalyzer

A Breathalyzer Test is a device used to measure the blood alcohol content of a person’s breath, particularly when a law enforcement officer suspects that the person is driving while intoxicated. A Breathalyzer Test detects alcohol on a person’s breath by using a chemical reaction. The Breathalyzer Test itself contains several chemicals and each is a different color. The colors change when they are exposed to alcohol.

The Types of Chemicals Used in a Breathalyzer

Potassium Dichromate is one of the crystal chemicals used in the Breathalyzer. The chemical starts out as orange-yellow in color and changes from yellow to green when it comes in contact with alcohol. An officer can determine the amount of alcohol detected by how intensely the color changes. For example, the Breathalyzer test is measured and counted in percent units of Blood Alcohol Concentration. By way of illustration, a man weighing approximately 160-pounds might have a blood alcohol concentration of 0.04 percent after drinking two 12-ounce cans of beer on an empty stomach. The legal Blood Alcohol Concentration in most states is 0.08 percent. If a Breathalyzer Test is administered properly, the results are admissible in court.

Did You Refuse a Breathalyzer?

If you or someone you care about has been charged because they refused to take the Breathalyzer test or if they failed the test, don’t hesitate to contact our experienced drunk driving attorneys at www.straightdui.com immediately. We’ll do everything in our power to help you. The Straight DUI law firm is dedicated to helping those with DUI charges. Plus, our DWI lawyers know the laws related to various states and can assist you no matter where you live. Impaired driving is a criminal offense and you need help from an experienced DUI attorney. Contact us to find out how we can assist you.