For most people, the thought of being pulled over by a police officer is a scary one. This can be especially true after you have had a few drinks. Even if you are not intoxicated. However, if a police officer suspects that you have been drinking or you tell them that you have had a few drinks, you may be subjected to a field sobriety test. It is important to note that if you decline or fail the test, you will likely be arrested. When an officer decides to have you take a field sobriety test, he will have the discretion to choose between administering a breath or blood test in Texas. It is important to note that if you were left unconscious in an accident, police officers are not required to ask for your permission to test your blood.
Though you may have only had a few drinks, it is possible to still fail a blood or breath test. In some cases, there may have been mistakes made while administering the test, their equipment could have malfunctioned and given a “false read” (in the case of a breath test in Texas), or there are other inaccuracies present in the process. This is why it is recommended that you connect with an experienced Fort Worth DWI lawyer as soon as you can. At Cole Paschall Law, we have been helping our clients to fight DWI convictions for almost three decades and we don’t intend on stopping now. Give us a call to schedule your initial consultation today.
Should You Refuse to Take Either Test?
Refusing to take a blood test in Texas or a breath test in Texas can have serious implications. This is especially true if you refuse both. Thus, it only makes sense to refuse a blood test or breath test in Texas for a few reasons which are listed below:
- You are drunk to the point that it’s clear: If you are showing clear signs of being intoxicated, it may be top to take the test. This will cut the time of your license suspension in half. Remember, refusing to have your BAC tested is grounds for an automatic license suspension. Though if you have an option, it is always top to take a breath test in Texas, as blood tests are very accurate.
- You haven’t had anything to drink: If you have had nothing to drink, then it can’t hurt to take a blood or breath test in Texas.
The only time that it may be a good idea to refuse a blood test in Texas is if you are not completely sure whether or not you are intoxicated. Though it is important to remember that you are taking a gamble. Refusal results in an automatic 180 days suspension of your license. Though this can be challenged if done within 15 days. Furthermore, a police officer can get a court order to get your blood test in Texas completed without your consent. This is why it is imperative to connect with a Fort Worth DWI lawyer before in order to give you the greatest chances of hedging this bet in your favor.
Implications of Taking a Blood or Breath Test in Texas
As previously noted, a blood test in Texas is incredibly accurate. Though breath tests are as well, they can be refuted more often than the former. If you take one of these tests and pass, you are obviously in good condition. However, if you fail, your license will be suspended and you will be facing an uphill battle in court. Being convicted of a DWI has major implications that can affect your freedom, career, and finances.
Working With a Reputable Fort Worth DWI Lawyer
As you can likely see, it pays to work with an experienced Fort Worth DWI lawyer. An attorney can help you to refute the results of a blood or breath test in Texas, as well as fight to keep your record clean or at least free of DWI charges. If you have recently been charged with a DWI offense, it is imperative that you enlist the services of a well-qualified Fort Worth DWI lawyer as quickly as you can. Give the attorneys at Cole Paschall Law a call to schedule your initial consultation today.
