What is the difference between a Breathalyzer and a field sobriety test?
A field sobriety test (FST) and a breathalyzer are two common tests used to determine an individual’s level of intoxication in Washington. Both tests are used to determine if someone is driving under the influence of alcohol, although they are different tests. A field sobriety test is a physical test conducted by a law enforcement officer at the scene of a DUI arrest. It typically includes tests such as reciting the alphabet, walking in a straight line, or counting backward from a certain number. The officer evaluates the individual’s performance to determine their level of impairment. A breathalyzer is a chemical test that is conducted using a device that measures the blood-alcohol content (BAC) of an individual. It is typically conducted either at the scene or at a police station. The breathalyzer measures the amount of alcohol present in the breath, which can then be used to estimate the individual’s BAC. In Washington, both the field sobriety test and the breathalyzer are commonly used to test for DUI. The field sobriety test is typically used in combination with the breathalyzer to provide evidence of impairment. The primary difference between the two tests is that the field sobriety test is a physical test while the breathalyzer is a chemical test.
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