Alco-sensor

An alco-sensor is the name of the preliminary breath test that Georgia officers administer when making a traffic stop if they suspect the driver of driving under the influence of alcohol.  Typically, the Georgia DUI officer will talk to the driver first and look for signs in their appearance or speech that indicate intoxication.  For example, the officer may believe that they have observed red or glassy eyes, slurred speech, an odor of alcohol on the person, etc.  Next, the officer will usually administer some field sobriety tests such as the HGN, the walk the line and turn, and a one leg stand test.  If the officer feels that the officer failed one or more of the field sobriety tests, they will ask the driver to take the alco-sensor, a breath test.  This detects the presence of alcohol. 

But the alco-sensor is not a reliable test.  The temperature in which the device is stored, radio frequencies, and whether the driver ate certain breath mints or gum, are among the factors that can affect the results. 

If you are faced with drunk driving charges, call Georgia DUI attorney Richard Lawson today for a free consultation.  Mr. Lawson has considerable experience challenging the validity of the alco-sensor breath test.