When a driver is pulled over on suspicion of drunk driving, he or she will typically need to take a blood alcohol content (BAC) test. This is because it is difficult to get a DWI conviction without evidence that the driver's BAC was over the legal limit of .08. While some alcohol-related charges can be pressed without a BAC test, drunk driving cases often depend heavily on this evidence.

Unfortunately, these tests are not necessarily reliable in every case. Working with an attorney who understands the potential flaws with different methods of measuring BAC can help to reduce the likelihood that you will be wrongly convicted of DUI. To begin working with an ally whom you can trust to vigorously defend your case, contact the Seattle DUI defense lawyers of Cowan Kirk at 866-822-1230.

Different BAC Tests

In the field, police officers and state troopers attempt to assess the likelihood that a driver is under the influence by using their senses to detect signs of alcohol consumption. During a traffic stop, an officer may smell alcohol on a suspect's breath; while driving, an officer may witness suspicious driving behaviors that suggest impairment.

Neither of these experiential methods of detection, however, may serve as the exclusive proof of guilt. To establish that a suspect's BAC is in violation of the legal limit, there are three basic tests that may be conducted:

• Breathalyzer/breath analysis – in which a machine is used to measure the concentration of alcohol in a suspect's exhaled breath
• Urinalysis – in which a urine sample is collected and evaluated
• Blood tests – blood is drawn and tested for alcohol content

While BAC tests are often viewed as reliable evidence, the truth is that they can be flawed. If you have been charged with impaired driving, it is very important to speak with an experienced Seattle DWI defense attorney who is familiar with all of these tests.

Contact Us

Let us help you to identify potential errors that might undermine the case against you. Contact the Seattle DUI defense lawyers of Cowan Kirk at 866-822-1230.