A chemical test is used by the police to evaluate the blood alcohol content in someone’s body. People have the option to do a blood or urine test, but most people will take a breath test. A breath test, or breathalyzer is a small, portable device that police may...
North Carolina Criminal Law Blog
3 times when police officers are on high alert for drunk driving
Police officers in North Carolina are typically always ready to pull over a driver who shows signs of impairment at the wheel. They will also often ask for chemical tests from those involved in a recent collision. However, there are certain times when people will...
Defense options if charged with a DUI
A conviction for driving under the influence of alcohol (DUI) can come with consequences that could make life difficult for years to come. Court-imposed fines plus insurance hikes will hit your bank balance. Jail time could lead to emotional trauma for you and your...
Does a failed Breathalyzer mean that you are automatically guilty?
Breathalyzer tests are frequently produced as a key part of the evidence in DUI cases. However, it is important to note that the technology is not always 100% accurate. Despite being one of the more accurate ways to gauge blood alcohol content, the test results of...
What blood alcohol concentration limits mean for you
North Carolina has some of the strictest driving while intoxicated (DWI) and driving under the influence (DUI) laws in the country. If a police officer stops you because they suspect you may be under the influence, you should comply with their request to measure your...
Is alcohol really more dangerous for women than for men?
Having a drink after a long day at work or a stressful week can help you relax. Alcohol is also a social lubricant that can make it easier for you to relate to your coworkers or a client when you're trying to close a deal. Whether you go out with your friends or...
What happens if the police accuse me of drugged driving?
Like all states, North Carolina has had explicit laws against drunk driving in place for years. Yet, the rules about drugged driving are not so well known. As a driver, the main thing to know is that the state takes a tough line on anyone they believe is affected by...
Don’t bet your future on a vending machine breath test at the bar
Bars, restaurants and other hospitality establishments are always trying to find small services that they can charge customers for to increase and diversify their revenue streams. They will add new menu items or drinks to profit off of trends. Vending machines in the...
Drinking and driving is a concern in North Carolina: Know your rights
North Carolina is a beautiful state, but it does have its problems. Among them is a risk of drunk drivers on the road, drivers being uninsured and fatal collisions. A new report ranked North Carolina against other states to find the state with the worst drivers in the...
How accurate are breathalyzer tests?
If you are pulled over for suspected drunk driving, more than likely the police will do three things: try to smell alcohol on your breath, have you perform a field sobriety test and have you take a breathalyzer test. U.S. police departments have used breathalyzers,...