DUI Blood and Urine Tests

In addition to breathalyzer tests, there are two other types of chemical tests that are used to determine a person’s blood alcohol content (BAC): blood and urine.

Not all types of tests are used in every state, however, so in order to know what is normal and permitted in your own state, you should consult a local DUI attorney.

What follows is information on blood and urine tests, including their reliability and admissibility in court as well as potential problems associated with them.

Blood Tests

Of the three types of tests used to measure BAC, blood tests are the most accurate so long as they are performed correctly. Some states permit blood tests if the police have “probable cause” to suspect you have been driving under the influence of alcohol.

Other states, however, do not permit blood tests for “routine” DUI cases; in those states, blood tests may be restricted to situations in which there has been an accident and/or severe injury.

Because they are so reliable, blood tests are often admissible in court and they can be hard to fight; you will need an experienced DUI attorney to do this for you if you have submitted to a blood test and tested over the legal limit. Contact one as soon as possible after your arrest.

Urine Tests

Urine tests are the least likely to be performed in order to measure BAC, but if you are suspected of using drugs while operating a motor vehicle, a urine test is commonly used. This is because a urine test does a great job of detecting illegal substances in the body but not so great a job of measuring BAC. Whether urine tests are admissible in court for DUI convictions varies by state.

As always, be sure to consult a DUI attorney in your area to determine your rights and obligations regarding DUI law and the chemical tests used in your state.