DUI – DWI Breath Tests in Illinois

Reader’s Question:

Hi, I live in Bloomington, Illinois and my question is about the breath test that is used in a DUI investigation. What are the usual flaws that a breath testing machine has?

Elsie

Bloomington, IL

The breathalyzer or a breath testing machine used in Bloomington, Illinois, or anywhere in the state for that matter, operates using infrared analysis. Unfortunately, infrared analysis is prone to many flaws; so breathalyzer tests do not always provide accurate results.

The major flaw that infrared “breathalyzers” are prone to is specificity. The designers of the breathalyzer or the breath test machine understood this and attempted to diminish the chances of this flaw causing problems by using two wavelengths. The onboard computer coordinates sequencing and automatic calibration, which enables easy use and limits errors. Also, the software had the option to be calibrated to meet the requirements of various jurisdictions or agencies. The breath tube used by the breath test machine is detachable and has a concealed wire-wrapped antenna that is used to detect any radio frequency interference. The detector should be at near freezing; this must also be monitored by the computer.

DUI Blood Alcohol Test in Illinois – How Accurate Are They?

Reader’s Question:

I know that there are certain ways to measure alcohol in the system during a DUI investigation in Wheaton, Illinois. What is the most accurate scientific method for alcohol testing?

Jaden

Wheaton, IL

Even if consumed in small amounts, alcohol could have a noticeable effect on the body. When taken in large amounts, alcohol could act as a sedative and depresses the central nervous system. Blood alcohol test is commonly used to find out whether a person is legally drunk or intoxicated. Blood alcohol test checks the amount of alcohol in the blood if a person is suspected to be driving under the influence. In a DUI investigation in  Illinois, consent may be required, but refusing to take the test could have legal consequences.

Blood alcohol content (BAC) is the standard for measuring the degree to which an individual is impaired by alcohol. Studies show that there is a direct correlation between the BAC and the degree to which reactions and judgments are impaired. Gas Chromatography is the method used for blood alcohol testing and is considered the most accurate forensic quality test in the industry today. But drawing of blood is an invasive and expensive procedure.