Reasons Lexington Drivers Should Consider Challenging Test Results
Challenging breath or blood test results can be appropriate when the evidence underlying a DUI arrest is incomplete, inconsistent, or procedurally flawed. Drivers in Lexington should consider this service if records show gaps in calibration, broken seals, unclear labeling, or delays between the stop and the test that could affect accuracy. Even when readings are high, legal or scientific issues may reduce the weight of those results. Pursuing a challenge helps ensure you have a full opportunity to contest the state’s case before accepting adverse consequences.
Another important reason to pursue a challenge is to protect long-term interests like driving privileges, employment, and insurance status. A successful challenge can lead to reduced charges or preserved license rights. For residents of Lexington and Holmes County, even modest improvements in case outcomes can have meaningful impacts on daily life. Seeking a careful review of testing procedures and downloadable records allows attorneys to present a clearer, fact-based defense that addresses both immediate and future risks.
Common Situations That Warrant a Test Challenge
Circumstances that typically prompt a review include unclear chain of custody for blood samples, missed calibration for breath devices, inconsistent officer reports, and medical conditions that could affect readings. Delays between driving and testing or lack of documentation for lab procedures also raise concerns. When any of these elements appear in the Lexington arrest record, it is reasonable to investigate further and consider filing motions to suppress or exclude the test result as unreliable evidence before moving forward with plea negotiations or trial.
Missing or Incomplete Calibration Records
If breath machine logs do not show required calibrations or if calibration values fall outside accepted ranges, the machine’s readings may be unreliable. Missing documentation can be a powerful basis for questioning the admissibility of breath results. In Lexington cases, attorneys will request maintenance histories and calibration certificates to determine whether the device produced trustworthy readings. When records are incomplete, that gap can be the focal point of motions seeking to exclude or limit breath test evidence presented by the prosecution.
Problems with Chain of Custody
Breaks or ambiguities in the chain of custody for blood samples create doubts about whether the tested sample came from the arrested individual and whether it was stored properly. Missing signatures, unlabeled tubes, or unexplained transfers raise the risk of contamination or misidentification. Lexington clients facing blood test allegations should have their attorney obtain and review custody logs, collection forms, and lab records to determine whether these procedural flaws can be used to challenge the integrity of the blood evidence.
Medical Conditions or Environmental Factors
Certain medical conditions, prescription or over-the-counter medications, and environmental exposures can affect breath or blood readings. Factors like gastroesophageal reflux, recent dental work, or exposure to volatile chemicals may inflate breathalyzer numbers. Similarly, dehydration or improper sample handling can influence blood results. In Lexington cases, collecting relevant medical information early can inform defense theories and help attorneys present alternative explanations for unexpected or elevated readings in court or during negotiations.
