Most DUI arrests end with a breath test, not a blood draw. There are, however, a couple different ways a DUI can lead to a blood draw. If law enforcement believes a driver is impaired by something other than alcohol, then they might request a blood draw. Sometimes drivers who have consumed alcohol refuse a breath test at the police station. This can lead also to a blood draw situation.
Some drivers may not smell like they’ve consumed alcohol, but they still show signs of impairment. These usually include slow, uncoordinated movements and comprehension problems. Currently, legal breath tests only check for alcohol so a blood draw will determine if someone has consumed drugs. An officer who suspects a driver is on drugs will likely ask them to perform roadside sobriety tests. Then after an arrest, the officer can ask a judge to sign a blood draw warrant.
Refusing a breath test at the police station can also lead to a blood draw. In these cases the officer has a choice: complete the DUI investigation solely as a breath test refusal or request a blood warrant.
Once a blood draw warrant is signed, then law enforcement coordinates with medical personnel to draw blood. The person actually conducting the draw must be authorized by the Washington State Department of Health. Their credentials can be verified here. Next, the officer sends the sample to the Washington State Toxicology Lab for testing. The test results will show whether alcohol and/or drugs were present in the blood and the quantities of each substance.
A drug DUI can occur whether the driver has consumed illegal drugs, prescription medications or even over the counter meds. If you or someone you care about have been accused of a DUI involving a blood draw, breath test or refusal, then contact Cooney Law Offices today. Fighting for you!