After a fun-filled night with friends, you start the drive home. Along your route, you see red and blue flashing lights behind you. Next thing you know, you’re facing a breathalyzer. Of all the tests you take in life, the breathalyzer is one you definitely DO NOT want to fail.

What is a Breathalyzer? 
A breathalyzer is a machine created to measure a person’s blood alcohol content (BAC) from a mere puff of breath. Breathalyzer tests are a means to an end for police forces. These devices don’t give a precise BAC amount, but an estimate based on the way alcohol breaks down within the human body. Often times the breathalyzer is given alongside a field sobriety test. It is a preliminary exam used to help officers decide whether or not a DUI arrest is necessary.

What’s the Legal Limit? 
In all states, the legal BAC limit is .08 for adults. For teens, many states have adopted laws allowing DUI charges if any alcohol is present during a breathalyzer. This is lower than in the past, but since teens are underage and alcohol-related teen accidents claim so many lives each year, it’s understandable. Many drinkers won’t feel any impairment at this stage. Body weight, food consumption, and metabolism affect how you process alcohol. Most women weighing between 120 and 180 pounds will reach the legal limit after three drinks. Men weighing between 160 and 200 pounds will reach it at only four or five drinks.

What if I Refuse? 
Don’t refuse a breathalyzer test. In most states, refusal is the same as admitting guilt. You can’t defend yourself in court well if you’ve basically admitted you were driving drunk. Lower BAC levels detected via a breathalyzer may allow fewer penalties than a refusal.

What Happens if I Fail? 
If you fail the breathalyzer, the first thing you should do is find a DUI lawyer. Consult websites like TotalDUI for tips on finding a good attorney. Always hire a lawyer specializing in DUI law. These attorneys know how to fight breathalyzer results and traffic stops, and protect your right to drive. Facing a DUI isn’t the end of the world, but the results are far-reaching and long-lasting. You may not drive for a long time. You might not be able to pay for post-DUI car insurance which is very expensive. You might lose your job or be unable to find a job. More importantly, you could injure or kill yourself or another innocent person. The only way to pass a breathalyzer is to drive and not drink.