A successful charge of DWI comes with significant consequences. In Texas, even a first-time offense can trigger up to 180 days behind bars and a $2,000 fine. Another potential is the loss of driving privileges for up to a year.
Breath tests are no longer in use as often as before. Instead, blood draws are now more likely. We rely on labs to reveal the truth, yet there are reasons for unreliable results.
Insufficient storage
Protocol states that technicians must use vacuum blood collection tubes. These vacutainers help shield samples from destructive contamination. When seals are not tightened, outside elements can creep in and throw off reliability.
Temperatures may also have a significant impact. Improper attention to lab climate threatens testing integrity. For that matter, vials have end dates that demand observation. Once they are past their expirations, the data they produce falls into question.
Insufficient potassium oxalate
Inadequate amounts of this compound trigger clotting. If this happens, the solid-to-liquid ratio gets thrown off balance. Such a situation sometimes causes higher readings. Figures that do not reflect reality spell trouble for their subjects.
Insufficient sodium fluoride
Scientists must mix a specific level of this element with blood during testing. A handler who lacks proper attention could administer the wrong amount. This type of oversight has the potential to lead to erroneous numbers.
When a blood alcohol test indicates intoxication, human error might be the explanation. It is tragic for anyone to receive punishment because of a scientific miscalculation. Any courtroom defense of this nature requires proof explaining the cause for inaccuracy.