Alabama DUI Blood Test
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Of the three chemical tests administered to a person who has been accused of a DUI, the blood test is the most scientifically accurate. However, this test is not often used by police agencies. The breathalyzer is a more popular method because it is easy to transport, administer and is easier to introduce into evidence in court.
Blood tests also involve a longer chain of custody to obtain the evidence and more witness testimony. Alabama, as in many other states, requires that no other person than a physician, registered nurse or a phlebotomist qualified by the state can draw the blood for purposes of determining the alcohol concentration. Factors such as administration, transportation, preservation, security and the way in which the blood was analyzed must all be taken into account according to state law.
Most states prefer to use a process called “gas chromatography” or “GC”. The GC testing method utilizes a measuring technique of comparison of a known “standard” to the subject’s sample. These standards are often certified pre-mix solutions. These solutions have been tested and re-tested for being reliable “markers” for the GC device.
The gas chromatography, mass spectrophotometry device, or “GC-MS” device is an internationally accepted method for testing. This device can identify and detect a wide variety of drugs, including alcohol in one’s system.
While blood tests are highly regarded, they can still be fought in court, pending that your lawyer is experienced. In state crime labs and hospitals, people often make mistakes. What if they are new on the job or are not properly trained? What if your record is not properly maintained? So if you tested at or over .08, which is Alabama’s legal limit, don’t panic! A misstep in a procedure may invalidate your result.
