A DUI arrest could create enormous problems for a Mississippi driver. Even a first-time DUI offense may result in jail time, fines, and a license suspension. Suffering the ill effects of such penalties may become intolerable for drivers who feel they are victims of inaccurate breath tests. Inaccurate tests potentially include self-tests connected to smartphones.
Smartphones and inaccurate self-test results
People wishing to avoid DUI charges may take steps to avoid driving a vehicle while under the influence. A driver who had “only a few drinks” might turn to a “personal alcohol breath testing device” that pairs with smartphones. Since guessing one’s blood alcohol content is hardly possible, using a test could provide accurate results. Unfortunately, not all test results turn out to be as precise as expected.
A study suggests these smartphone/breath tests aren’t always reliable. It revealed some devices might be far less accurate than a police-grade Breathalyzer test.
The troubles with inaccurate breath tests are apparent. Someone leaving a bar or party might rely on the test results to determine BAC. Inaccurate results may lead someone to get behind the wheel under the assumption BAC levels are at the legal threshold. A DUI stop might reveal a higher BAC level and result in charges.
Legal troubles follow
A driver might think his or her BAC is 0.07 based on a poor test result. An accurate police test reveals that the BAC is 0.09, and that official test is the one from which charges derive. Rather than relying on controversial smartphone-paired self-tests, drivers might opt to call a rideshare service after having drinks. Doing so may keep them out of legal jeopardy.
