The Strong Defense
You Deserve
Understanding the Role of Breathalyzer and Blood Test Results in Florida DUI Cases

If you’ve been charged with a DUI in Tampa, Florida, you’re likely feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about what comes next. One of the most critical pieces of evidence in DUI cases is the result of breathalyzer and blood tests. At Brunvand & Wise Law Group, we’re here to help you understand how these tests work, their impact on your case, and how we can defend your rights.
The Importance of Chemical Tests in DUI Cases
In Florida, driving under the influence (DUI) laws are stringent. Law enforcement relies heavily on chemical tests like breathalyzers and blood tests to determine a driver’s blood alcohol concentration (BAC). If your BAC is 0.08% or higher, you’re considered legally impaired, and this can lead to severe penalties, including fines, license suspension, and even jail time.
Breathalyzer Tests: How Reliable Are They?
Breathalyzer tests are the most commonly used method by police officers to measure BAC on the spot. While they offer immediate results, their accuracy can be questionable due to various factors:
– Device Calibration: Breathalyzer machines require regular maintenance and calibration. An improperly calibrated device can yield inaccurate results.
– Officer Training: The officer administering the test must be properly trained. Misuse of the device can compromise the test’s validity.
– External Factors: Medical conditions like diabetes or acid reflux, as well as recent use of mouthwash or certain medications, can affect the results.
Blood Tests: The Gold Standard?
Blood tests are generally considered more accurate than breathalyzers. They measure the actual amount of alcohol in your bloodstream. However, they are not without issues:
– Proper Procedure: The blood draw must be conducted by a qualified professional following strict protocols. Any deviation can contaminate the sample.
– Storage and Handling: Improper storage can lead to fermentation of the blood sample, artificially increasing the BAC reading.
– Time Delays: Alcohol levels can rise or fall between the time of driving and when the blood is drawn, potentially misrepresenting your BAC at the time you were behind the wheel.
Challenging Chemical Test Results
An experienced DUI attorney can scrutinize the circumstances surrounding your chemical tests to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. Here are ways Brunvand & Wise Law Group can challenge the results:
– Questioning Device Accuracy: We’ll examine maintenance records for breathalyzer devices to ensure they were properly calibrated.
– Assessing Officer Competence: We’ll verify whether the administering officer had the necessary training and followed correct procedures.
– Investigating Medical Conditions: If you have a medical condition that could affect the test, we’ll bring this to the court’s attention.
– Examining Chain of Custody: For blood tests, we’ll investigate how the sample was handled from collection to analysis.
Why Choose Brunvand & Wise Law Group
Navigating a DUI charge in Tampa requires a deep understanding of Florida’s DUI laws and scientific knowledge about chemical testing methods. At Brunvand & Wise Law Group, we offer:
– Expert Legal Representation: Our attorneys have extensive experience defending DUI cases and are well-versed in challenging chemical test evidence.
– Personalized Strategy: We understand that every case is unique. We’ll develop a defense strategy tailored to your specific situation.
– Aggressive Advocacy: We’re committed to protecting your rights and will fight tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome for your case.
Take the First Step Toward Protecting Your Future
A DUI conviction can have long-lasting effects on your life, affecting your driving privileges, employment opportunities, and personal reputation. Don’t leave your future to chance. Contact Brunvand & Wise Law Group today for a free consultation. We’ll guide you through the legal process and work diligently to defend your rights.
Contact us today to schedule your consultation.
—
Brunvand & Wise Law Group is your trusted Tampa, Florida criminal defense attorney firm specializing in DUI cases. Let us put our expertise to work for you.