Fooling the Breathalyzer?

Given the number of D.U.I. arrests made every day in the U.S., it is no surprise that many rumors exist about how to “fool” the breathalyzer devices used by the majority of law enforcement agencies into a lower reading. Substances that are commonly believed to produce this effect include breath mints, onions, mouthwash, and even pennies. However, as famously disproven on the Discovery Channel show Mythbusters, every one of these attempts turns out to be just that – a busted myth.

While any of these substances might fool a person, modern breathalyzers are sophisticated devices designed to measure the alcohol content of the blood – something that no tic-tac can cover up. In fact, attempted interference of this sort can even produce the opposite effect. Studies have shown that some breath sprays and mouth washes actually grossly inflate the readings of many breathalyzers, so if your goal is to appear beyond lethal levels of intoxication, you might consider using these hygienic products.

Refusing a Test

Another popular D.U.I. myth claims that by refusing to be tested, you cannot be convicted of an offense. In reality, nothing could be further from the truth – refusal is almost universally taken to be an admission of guilt, and in some states, can even carry an automatic jail time sentence for resisting compliance with officers.

Contact Us

Despite their accuracy, breathalyzers are still prone to human and mechanical error, and can be affected by a number of circumstances. To discuss your options in a DUI case involving breathalyzer test results, contact the experienced Rhode Island DUI lawyer Matthew Marin at 401-287-4384.