Drunk driving is an epidemic that has not been slowing down in recent years. No matter how many people lose their lives every year because of a drunk driver, people still continue to get behind the wheel after a night of drinking. It is one of the most dangerous things that a driver can do behind the wheel because it not only puts the driver at risk, but everyone else on the road as well. There are a variety of different ways that a police officer can determine if someone has higher than the legal limit of alcohol in their system. One of the most accurate ways is through blood tests. This is the only definitive way to prove that the person had more than the legal limit of alcohol in their system. However, blood testing is certainly not the only method used to gather evidence against a drunk driver.

One of the most popular methods is through a breath test. This is typically done through a machine called a breathalyzer. Police officers carry this in their car and administer to it to people who they suspect of being intoxicated. Legally, you have to comply with an officer’s demand that you submit to the test. If you refuse to take the test, you could find yourself in even more trouble. Refusal gives the officer the right to suspend your license immediately and you can still be charged with driving under the influence. It will also not look good during the trial if you refused to submit to the breathalyzer. However, the breathalyzer has some faults. It is sometimes difficult to interpret, so the results are not always one hundred percent accurate. But there is a new device that is proving to be much more reliable. It is called a datamaster and instead of using a dial, it actually prints a readout of the blood alcohol content of the person. This cannot be debated and is clear evidence that can be used to convict the person of driving under the influence.

The datamaster is almost as accurate as blood tests and is being used more commonly by police in the United States. Blood testing is not used as frequently because it is difficult to perform on the side of the street. If the driver is taken into custody, there might be a blood test once they get to the police station.

Another form of test that is used to measure someone’s ability to drive is standardized field testing. These are tests that are designed to test both the person’s mental and physical condition. There are three tests that are scientifically proven, but there are a wide variety of tests that officers may use. Unlike breath and blood testing, you can refuse to take any type of standardized field test. The officer is not allowed to require anyone to take one of those tests but you can volunteer to take one if you are asked. A lot of people who are completely sober volunteer to take these tests to prove that they are not drunk. This type of test will usually not prove that the person is drunk all on its own. This evidence is usually used along with the breath or blood test. Some states also permit urine tests to decide if the person is too drunk to drive.

If you have been in an accident that was caused by a drunk driver, then you need to talk to a lawyer as soon as possible. You should not be held responsible for the costs that you have incurred as a result of someone else’s poor judgment. There are law firms who specialize in this type of case who will be able to get you the settlement that you deserve. If you were injured by a drunk driver then you have an even better chance of getting a good settlement. Consult a lawyer today and find out what your legal options are.