Personal Breathalyzers – Do They Work?

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One of the trends that the Reynolds Defense Firm has seen are personal breathalyzer apps, key chains, and handheld devices made for consumer use.  Do they work?  Do we recommend personal breathalyzers?  Keep reading to find out!

 

Can I Get My Own Personal Breathalyzer?

Personal breathalyzers made for consumers are certainly available for purchase.  These devices are hand-held, making it convenient for consumers to use and carry around.  Some handheld breath analyzers even come with a smartphone app. The functionality of these apps vary, but features often overlap.  These apps can let you know a number of things, including your BAC estimate.  They may also indicate how long you need to blow into the device, save of all your BAC logs, and estimate when your BAC will return to 0%.

Do Personal Breathalyzers Sold To Consumers Really Work?

While consumers can purchase breathalyzers to detect their BAC, they are not considered as a reliable source for determining if the user should drive.  Yes, they can detect alcohol on your breath.  However, these device sensors prone to contamination and interference from scents and substances other than your breath.  They also require frequent re-calibration.

 

I Used My Personal Breathalyzer and Was Still Arrested.  Why?

If you are arrested for a DUI, the police standard is the only standard that will be considered. To take it a step further, RDF frequently represents clients who blew under a .08 BAC.  This is because a police officer’s job is to arrest you if they feel your mental or physical faculties has been noticeably compromised.  In other words, if the officer feels like you are not as sharp mentally or physically as you were before drinking alcohol, you may be cited for a DUI.

If you have been arrested for a DUI in Oregon after using a personal breathalyzer device for consumers, we can help.  Please contact Reynolds Defense Firm for your free consultation, or visit our website for additional information. We’re solid, we’re here if you need us, and we’re very good at what we do.

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