Are breathalyzer tests guaranteed to be accurate?

Breathalyzer tests, while commonly used to assess blood alcohol concentration (BAC), are not guaranteed to be accurate under all circumstances. The correct answer highlights that various factors can influence the reliability of these tests.

Calibration errors can occur if the device is not properly maintained or adjusted according to the manufacturer's specifications. Regular calibration is essential for ensuring that breathalyzers provide accurate readings. If a device has not been calibrated correctly, it may produce misleading results.

Additionally, personal physiology can affect the accuracy of the reading. Individual factors such as body temperature, lung capacity, and even the presence of certain medical conditions can lead to variations in BAC readings. This means that two individuals with the same level of alcohol consumption may receive different results from a breathalyzer.

Understanding these factors is crucial, especially in legal contexts where breathalyzer results can have significant consequences. Knowledge of the limitations of breathalyzer tests helps to promote a more nuanced approach to interpreting their results in real-world scenarios.