4 Field Sobriety Test Errors That Could Invalidate Your DUI Charge

My post contentIn the realm of legal proceedings, dealing with a DUI charge can be a confusing and frightful experience. A critical factor in these situations often revolves around field sobriety tests. However, not all tests are accurate or administered correctly every time. This is where a DUI attorney in Troy, Ohio, can step in, scrutinizing all aspects of your case for potential missteps.

Errors in field sobriety tests can dramatically impact the outcome of a DUI charge. If there are inconsistencies or inaccuracies in how the tests were conducted, it could invalidate the charges.

Here are some field sobriety test errors that can help you beat a DUI charge.

Invalid Investigatory Stop

A traffic stop needs a valid reason; it's a key rule of law. It might be illegal if a law enforcement officer stops you without a valid reason. For example, if you were obeying traffic laws and driving safely but still got pulled over, that could be an issue.

What does this mean for your DUI charge? If the stop was illegal, all evidence gathered afterward may be dismissed. This includes any field sobriety tests that were conducted. A DUI attorney in Troy, Ohio, knows these legal rules and can use them to challenge the validity of the evidence against you. This can be a powerful way to fight a DUI charge.

Unreliable Breathalyzer Results

Breathalyzer machines are a standard tool used by law enforcement to measure a driver's blood alcohol level during a DUI investigation. However, these machines can sometimes give false results. For the breathalyzer to work correctly, it must be regularly maintained and calibrated.

If not, the readings may not be accurate. This lack of maintenance can cause the machine to overestimate a person's blood alcohol level, leading to a wrongful DUI charge. An experienced DUI attorney can investigate the maintenance records of the breathalyzer used in your case and challenge its reliability.

Insufficient Officer Training

Proper training for officers is crucial for accurate field sobriety tests. The tests have specific steps that must be followed. An officer needs to have the right training to conduct the test correctly. This can lead to false results.

In such cases, the DUI charges based on these tests may not hold up in court. A skilled DUI attorney can determine if the officer who conducted your test had the needed training. If the officer did not, the attorney can challenge the DUI charge.

Violation of Rights During DUI Investigation

It is important to note that your rights must be respected during a DUI investigation. There are rules that law enforcement officers must follow. If an officer does not tell you about your rights or doesn't follow these rules, it could cause problems for their case against you.

For instance, you have the right to remain silent and the right to have a lawyer present during questioning. If an officer does not inform you of these rights, it could invalidate your DUI charge.

Do You Need a DUI Attorney in Troy, Ohio?

If you think one or more of these mistakes were made during your field sobriety tests, it's time to take action. Hiring a DUI attorney in Troy, Ohio, is the best way to beat your charges. Contact us today!