What is the difference between a Breathalyzer and a field sobriety test?

The main difference between a Breathalyzer and a field sobriety test is what they measure. A Breathalyzer measures the amount of alcohol in a person’s breath to determine whether or not they are over the legal limit for intoxication. A field sobriety test on the other hand is designed to measure an individual’s level of coordination and ability to follow instructions. A Breathalyzer measures the breath-alcohol concentration (BrAC) of an individual by analyzing a sample of their breath. The result of the breath test is used by law enforcement to determine if an individual is violating DUI laws in Virginia. If the BrAC is 0.08 or higher, then the individual is considered to be under the influence of alcohol and can be arrested for DUI. Field sobriety tests are a series of physical tests used by law enforcement to determine if an individual is under the influence of alcohol or drugs. These tests test an individual’s physical coordination and ability to follow instructions. The tests typically involve standing on one leg, walking in a straight line, or standing with feet together and hands at sides. If an individual cannot successfully and safely complete the tests, it may be used as evidence to indicate that the individual was under the influence of alcohol or drugs. In short, a Breathalyzer measures alcohol in a person’s breath, and a field sobriety test measures an individual’s coordination and ability to follow instructions. Both are used by law enforcement to determine if a person is violating DUI laws in Virginia.

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What is the difference between a Breathalyzer and a field sobriety test?

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