Understanding Breathalyzer Tests

Inaccurate outcomes can arise from improper test administration.

The realm of accurate information regarding the rules and regulations surrounding breathalyzer tests remains surprisingly limited for most individuals. Frequently, the general public’s knowledge of breathalyzers is shaped primarily by what they observe on television and in movies. The same goes for OVIs and understanding what is an OVI. Consequently, when individuals are confronted with the request to undergo a breathalyzer test for the first time, they often find themselves uncertain about their rights and the appropriate course of action. This lack of proper understanding can lead to confusion and apprehension during a critical moment, potentially impacting their ability to make informed decisions. Given the importance of upholding individual rights and ensuring fair legal processes, it becomes crucial to enhance public awareness about the accurate procedures and legal aspects associated with breathalyzer tests.

In the state of Ohio, it is a legal obligation to stop and identify yourself when requested by law enforcement. It’s important to note that taking a breathalyzer test is not mandatory, but there may be potential consequences for refusing to undergo such a test. Refusal to submit to a breathalyzer test in Ohio can lead to administrative penalties. It’s advisable to be aware of these nuances and the potential implications of your choices when encountering a situation involving a breathalyzer test in Ohio. If individuals ever have questions pertaining to breathalyzer tests in Ohio, they should contact an experienced and dedicated Cincinnati criminal defense lawyer near them. 

What Is a Breathalyzer Test In Ohio?

The definition of breathalyzer tests in Ohio courts relies on a rigorous set of legal prerequisites outlined within Ohio Revised Code § 4511.19, the state’s OVI (Operating a Vehicle Impaired) statute. This statute asserts that individuals are prohibited from operating a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol, underscoring the significance of experiencing the genuine effects of alcohol-induced impairment. However, the “per se” OVI rule establishes that registering a blood-alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08% or higher constitutes a violation of the law, regardless of whether the individual is able to operate their vehicle or not. 

Are Breathalyzer Tests Admissible in Court?

For breathalyzer test results to be considered admissible evidence in court, prosecutors must meticulously fulfill specific conditions. The prosecution is tasked with establishing a solid foundation, showcasing that the breathalyzer device was properly calibrated and administered by a certified breath test operator, in alignment with the Ohio Director of Health’s stipulated guidelines. These guidelines cover: 

• Testing methodologies
• The qualifications of authorized administrators
• The certification process, including the authority to rescind certifications as required

Additionally, Ohio law states that a breathalyzer test conducted within three hours of arrest can be presented as evidence to demonstrate the accused’s blood-alcohol level. Conversely, any breath sample acquired more than three hours post-arrest is deemed inadmissible. The process of presenting such evidence in court involves ensuring that the testing officer adhered to established protocols, accurately documented data, and conducted essential solution tests on the breathalyzer apparatus at regular intervals, typically every seven days.

In essence, while breathalyzer test results hold potential for admission in Ohio court proceedings, unwavering compliance with legal requisites, calibration protocols, and certification standards is paramount. These guidelines are established to guarantee the precision and dependability of the evidence presented, underscoring the state’s unwavering dedication to equitable and just legal procedures concerning cases involving OVI-related offenses.

Breathalyzer Rules & Regulations in Ohio

The admissibility of breathalyzer test results in Ohio courts hinges on strict adherence to a set of crucial regulations governing these machines. These can include the following:

• Three-Hour Period – First and foremost, breath tests must be conducted within a three-hour window from the time an individual is suspected of driving under the influence. This time frame is a critical factor in determining the validity of the results. 
• 20-Minute Observation Period – Before the breath test can be administered, individuals must undergo a mandatory observation period of 20 minutes to ensure any residual substances in their mouth do not impact the results.
• Analysis Of Results – The samples collected must be meticulously analyzed in accordance with the operational checklist of the breathalyzer machine. This checklist serves as a critical benchmark for the accuracy and reliability of the test results. 
• Routine Maintenance & Testing – The instrument itself must undergo a thorough examination every seven days to confirm that it is in optimal working condition. These routine instrument checks are conducted following precise procedures and parameters specified in the Ohio Administrative Code, a vital aspect of maintaining the machine’s accuracy.
• Proper Certification to Administer Breathalyzer – Another pivotal requirement is that the person administering the breath test must hold the appropriate qualifications as described in the Ohio Administrative Code, either as a valid senior operator or operator. 

Violating any of these stringent regulations, from the timing of the test to the qualifications of the operator or the machine’s maintenance, can render the breathalyzer test inadmissible in court. It underscores the significance of strict compliance with these regulations to ensure the test’s integrity and reliability when presented as evidence in legal proceedings.

Defenses Against Breathalyzer Tests

Breathalyzer test results, often perceived as reliable indicators of blood alcohol content (BAC) levels, are susceptible to inaccuracies. Proficient OVI / DUI defense attorneys possess the skill to challenge breath test results using a range of strategic defenses:

Improper Testing

Inaccurate outcomes can arise from improper test administration. For instance, failing to observe the mandatory 20-minute waiting period or experiencing burps or vomiting before the test can skew mouth alcohol concentrations, distorting actual blood levels.

Improper Calibration

Misaligned calibration of the breathalyzer machine can generate erroneous readings. Defense lawyers can contend that improperly calibrated machines should not be considered admissible evidence.

Inadequate Record-Keeping 

Regulations mandate meticulous documentation of test results and machine calibration. Deviating from these guidelines may cast doubt on the test’s integrity and precision.

Improper Operator 

Only certified personnel should administer breath tests. If the operator lacks appropriate training, certifications, or permits, the credibility of test results can be called into question.

Radio Frequency Interference 

Breathalyzer machines are susceptible to disruption from police radios. Neglecting to check for radio frequency interference can compromise the reliability of test results.

Medical Conditions

Specific medical conditions, like acid reflux, can yield elevated BAC readings due to alcohol detection from the stomach. As stomach alcohol does not contribute to impairment, these readings can be disputed.

Intoxilyzer 8000 Issues

The reliability of the commonly used Intoxilyzer 8000 has been challenged due to its inability to distinguish mouth and lung breath and its arbitrary BAC calculation ratio. Legal challenges have underscored its potential unreliability and questioned the overall validity of breath test machines.

Contact A Cincinnati Criminal Defense Attorney 

Seeking the guidance of a reputable Cincinnati criminal defense attorney that excels in navigating the Ohio criminal justice system, offering comprehensive assistance from arrest to trial will give individuals the best chance at fighting breathalyzer test results.  Focused on safeguarding an individual’s rights and strategically shaping their defense, a criminal defense attorney’s goal is to enhance an individual’s prospects of achieving a favorable case outcome. If confronting OVI charges, reach out for a confidential consultation to explore legal options.