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Did A Medical Condition Skew Your Breath Test Results?

Located in the heart of Contra Costa County, Clayton is a charming city that spans just 3.8 square miles and boasts a population of around 11,000 residents. Nestled at the base of Mount Diablo State Park, Clayton was established by Joel Henry Clayton and his two younger brothers, earning its name following a playful coin toss between Clayton and Charles Rhine.

As a resident of Clayton, you may be familiar with the lively atmosphere at the Clayton Club Saloon on Main Street. Known for its unique décor—complete with cowboy boots adorning the ceiling—this popular local hangout offers affordable mixed drinks, a vibrant outdoor patio, and live bands without cover charges. Alternatively, if you prefer a refreshing locally brewed beer, the E.J. Phair Brewing Company Concord Alehouse on Salvio Street in nearby Concord serves up cold brews and savory wings in a friendly environment.

Need Expert Legal Support for DUI in Clayton?

Your evenings may often take you to your favorite bar or restaurant in Clayton or surrounding areas. However, facing a DUI stop on your way home is not what anyone anticipates. Whether you were pulled over for erratic driving or flagged down at a DUI checkpoint on Clayton Road, being charged with DUI can be a shocking experience.

In the unfortunate event of your DUI arrest in Clayton, California, the most prudent step you can take is to immediately reach out to a seasoned DUI attorney. An experienced attorney can analyze whether the breathalyzer test administered was conducted properly and whether the results are valid. At the Law Offices of Nabiel C. Ahmed, we pride ourselves on our track record of successful defenses against DUI charges.

For a free consultation and to seek guidance from a knowledgeable DUI defense attorney, call (510) 576-5544 or complete our quick online form today.

How Medical Conditions Can Impact Your Breath Test Results

If you find yourself facing DUI charges, it’s essential to consider whether any underlying medical conditions might have influenced the results of your breath test. Upon suspicion of DUI, you may be taken to the police station to undergo a breath test, which is typically the measurement used to ascertain alcohol levels in your bloodstream—a common indicator of impairment. However, breathalyzer units operate on several assumptions:

  • The individual being tested is in good health.
  • The environment in which the test is administered is optimal.
  • The person conducting the breath test is adequately trained.

Unfortunately, it is not uncommon for these assumptions to be inaccurate, leading to potentially flawed results.

Conditions That May Cause False Readings

Various medical conditions exist that can artificially inflate breath test readings. For instance, diabetes can raise acetone levels in the blood to hundreds or even thousands of times higher than a non-diabetic individual. While breath alcohol testers are designed to measure ethyl alcohol, they cannot differentiate between acetone and ethyl alcohol.

As a result, a person experiencing elevated acetone levels—such as a diabetic—could receive a mogul reading on a breathalyzer test.

Moreover, individuals following low-carbohydrate diets—high in protein and fats—may also observe spikes in acetone levels. Diets like Paleo and Ketogenic are known culprits that could lead to misleading breathalyzer evaluations. Similarly, gastrointestinal conditions, like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), can result in valuables causing undigested alcohol to rise back up the esophagus, potentially distorting breath test outcomes.

The Impact of Everyday Actions on Breath Tests

Even innocuous actions, such as burping, can significantly affect breathalyzer results since the act of burping allows gases from the stomach to escape into the mouth and esophagus. If you’ve been charged with a DUI in Clayton, now is the perfect opportunity to connect with a skilled DUI attorney who can diligently navigate these complexities on your behalf. The sooner your attorney can begin strategizing your defense, the greater your chances of achieving reduced charges or complete dismissal.

To build a strong defense for your DUI case, reach out to the Law Office of Nabiel C. Ahmed for a comprehensive, free case evaluation. Your future deserves a fighting chance. Call us at (510) 576-5544 or fill out our convenient online form today.

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