Getting a DWI is always going to be a stressful experience. But having proper knowledge around DWIs will ensure that it’s not any more taxing than it needs to be. It’s always a good idea to know the facts—and know your rights.
There are a number of common myths surrounding DWIs, and this article will attempt to address and debunk them. Any misinformation surrounding a criminal issue is dangerous, which is why it is so important these types of myths and misunderstandings are cleared up. Read on to learn some of the most often cited falsehoods surrounding DWIs and what the truth actually is.
Myth: A Breathalyzer Device Can Detect a Person’s Ability to Drive With Accuracy
There are several reasons this is not the case. To start with, when used incorrectly, breathalyzer devices can produce inconsistent results.
A breathalyzer device is designed to detect a person’s blood alcohol content (or BAC) level, but it cannot always reliably do this. As well as this, the presence of alcohol in someone’s system does not necessarily mean their ability to drive is always impaired.
Myth: Breathalyzer Results are Always Admissable in a Court of Law
For the above reasons, courts will not always accept breathalyzer results as evidence. For example, if a court suspects a police officer has not prepared and administered the test correctly, it may choose not to accept the results. For this reason, if you fail a breathalyzer test, it is still possible that you won’t face any punishment.
Myth: Failing a Field Sobriety Test Is Proof Of Intoxication
Sometimes, when a police officer suspects a motorist is under the influence, they will perform what is known as a standardized field sobriety test. This includes tasks such as walking in a straight line, following a moving object with the eyes, and standing on one leg. Police use the behavior observed during these tests to establish probable cause for arrest, however, this alone is not proof of intoxication.
Myth: I can beat a DWI charge by refusing to participate in a breathalyzer test
This is not always not the case. Although breathalyzer tests must be taken voluntarily, saying no to one is likely to land you with some sort of punishment at least.
Penalties for refusing to partake in a breathalyzer test are becoming more and more harsh. If you get caught driving under the influence or refuse a breathalyzer test, it may be a good idea to retain the services of a reputable DWI attorney.
DWI testing and Charges: Know the Facts
If you find yourself faced with a DWI charge, the best thing you can do is to prepare yourself and arm yourself with as many facts as possible. We hope this article has addressed and debunked some of the most prevalent DWI myths and helped you to be more informed. If you’ve found this article informative, don’t forget to take a look at the rest of our content relating to the ins and outs of the legal system.
Hemant Kumar is a project manager at Tridindia with more than nine years of commendable experience in writing about LMS, translation, and IT. His unmatched talent and passion for digital marketing gave him the opportunity to work as a multi-tasking project manager at TridIndia’s sister company, Link Building Corp. Today, he contributes to the world by imparting knowledge on SEO, link building and internet marketing etc., that helps business owners grow their online business.
