At Nash Law, we frequently field inquiries about the possibility of beating a breathalyzer test, and the unequivocal answer is NO! However, the intricacies of breathalyzers and prevailing misconceptions have spawned interesting attempts on how to outsmart this technology.
The likelihood of facing a DUI charge skyrockets near stadiums, concert halls, and entertainment venues, especially during peak hours when people commute to or from their jobs or events. Even if your alcohol consumption falls within the legal limit, the risk persists.
If you find yourself pulled over on suspicion of DUI, demonstrating control is crucial. Despite prevalent myths, such as consuming garlic, breath mints, or mouthwash to trick the breathalyzer, these efforts prove futile. In fact, attempting to deceive the breathalyzer with mouthwash can backfire, as many brands contain over 27% alcohol, inadvertently inflating the machine’s BAC reading.
Law enforcement officers are well-versed in these attempts, making it essential to prioritize transparency during traffic stops. While trying to ‘beat’ a breathalyzer is unlikely to succeed, it’s vital to recognize that breathalyzers aren’t infallible. Factors like improper administration or equipment malfunction can skew results.
Should you find yourself facing a DUI charge, a seasoned DUI defense lawyer can navigate these complexities in trial. Contact Nash Law for a complimentary initial consultation at 615-NASH-LAW, and let us guide you through the legal intricacies of DUI defense.
Myths About Tricking a Breathalyzer
There are some people who are under the impression that they can pass a breathalyzer test with tricks even if they are under the influence. You could even have heard of a friend or coworker who attests to it. Sadly, using some of the well-known conventional methods is not enough to get off the hook.
Below are some widespread misconceptions regarding how to beat a breathalyzer test that you should not believe:
Eating
Despite a widespread belief that eating can lower blood alcohol content, it’s a myth. The alcohol in your system is derived from beverages, and consuming food doesn’t eliminate or reduce its presence. Breathalyzer tests measure the concentration of alcohol in your breath, reflecting the alcohol in your bloodstream.
Chewing Gum or Mints
While chewing gum or using mints may temporarily mask alcohol odor, it does not affect breathalyzer results. These tests measure the alcohol content in your breath, not the smell. Freshening your breath won’t alter the accuracy of the test.
Using Breath Freshener or Mouthwash
Alcohol is one of the components of mouthwash. In actuality, most mouthwashes—which is also present in many breath sprays—contains about 27% alcohol. Using mouthwash or breath spray could raise your blood alcohol content (BAC) and cause a false positive test, even if you are not legally intoxicated.
Breath fresheners and mouthwash may provide a momentary cover-up for alcohol smell but have no impact on the actual alcohol content detected by a breathalyzer. The device measures the concentration of alcohol in your breath, not your breath’s fragrance.
Burping
There are others who think that if they burp during a breathalyzer test, the machine will record gas from their stomach rather than their lungs. Contrary to belief, burping doesn’t eliminate alcohol from your system. Breathalyzer tests gauge the concentration of alcohol in your breath, which directly correlates with the alcohol in your bloodstream.
Holding Your Breath
Holding your breath doesn’t alter breathalyzer results. The test measures the alcohol content in the air you exhale, representing the alcohol in your bloodstream, unaffected by breath-holding.
Sucking Pennies
Sucking on pennies is not only ineffective but potentially harmful. It doesn’t reduce blood alcohol content, and the copper in coins can introduce toxins. This myth lacks any scientific basis and is not a valid method for beating a breathalyzer.
Make Informed and Responsible Choices When Dealing With a Breathalyzer Test
There are no valid or recommended methods for altering breathalyzer results, and it may expose individuals to health risks. It is crucial to rely on accurate information and legal guidance rather than resorting to ineffective and potentially harmful practices.
Dispelling the myths surrounding beating a breathalyzer is crucial for fostering accurate understanding and promoting responsible behavior. Eating, chewing gum, using breath fresheners, burping, holding your breath, and sucking on pennies are all debunked methods that do not influence the accuracy of breathalyzer results.
These myths often lead to misguided attempts at evading legal consequences, and in some cases, may pose health risks. It’s essential to recognize that breathalyzers measure the concentration of alcohol in exhaled breath, directly reflecting the alcohol content in the bloodstream. Relying on scientifically validated information and legal guidance is imperative for making informed decisions and ensuring public safety on the roads.
Consult an Expert DUI Lawyer Today For Help Regarding Your DUI Case
With decades of collective experience, Nash Law is well-versed in vigorously contesting drunk driving charges in and around the region. Our seasoned team is dedicated to providing not just effective but aggressive representation, aiming to overturn driver’s license suspensions and shield you from the enduring impact of a DUI charge on your driving record.
Don’t let a DUI incident cast a shadow over your future prospects and reputation. Our legal team possesses an in-depth understanding of the intricacies surrounding DUI cases and is committed to strategically influencing the verdict in your favor. Choosing an experienced DUI defense attorney from our firm places a knowledgeable advocate firmly in your corner.
Empower yourself by reaching out to Nash Law for a comprehensive case assessment and consultation at 615-NASH-LAW. We understand the urgency and nuances of DUI cases, and our team is ready to guide you through every step of the legal process. Don’t face these challenges alone – let us stand by you.
