People have tried some creative methods to beat the Breathalyzer, and most have failed.
As St. Patrick’s Day approaches, and with alcohol a big part of holiday celebrations in Denver and elsewhere across the country, the Colorado criminal defense attorneys at Wolf Law take a look at some of the more ridiculous things people have done to try to beat the Breathalyzer and avoid DUI charges:
- Eat your underwear: The concept behind this ill-advised idea was that the cotton would soak up the alcohol
- Chow down on pungent foods: Some believed that eating foods rich in onions or garlic after drinking would mask the alcohol; they believed incorrectly
- A penny for your breath (but not your thoughts): There is a myth that the copper released by sucking on a penny can deceive a Breathalyzer, but modern pennies have little copper; besides, copper doesn’t lower your blood-alcohol content or fool a Breathalyzer
- Rinse with mouthwash: Mouthwash may help you maintain fresh breath, but it’s hogwash to think it will beat the Breathalyzer; and it’s important to remember that many mouthwashes contain alcohol, which could actually register a higher blood-alcohol level
- Hey, cup of Joe: A cup of coffee or other caffeinated beverage may make you feel more alert, but it doesn’t have an immediate effect on your blood-alcohol content, and it won’t conceal the alcohol from a Breathalyzer test
- Burp into the Breathalyzer: Rumors have circulated that belching into the Breathalyzer would skew the results, but burping won’t cover your blood-alcohol level or excuse you from a trip to jail
We encourage you enjoy St. Patrick’s Day, but we also encourage you to think before you drink. If you plan to drink, arrange for a designated driver, or take a taxi or car service. Please don’t drink and drive.
In the event that you face DUI charges, you should cooperate with law enforcement, but don’t make any admissions about drinking or how much you may have consumed. Instead, your first phone call should be to a knowledgeable DUI lawyer who can help you understand your legal options and fight to protect your rights.
The Denver DUI attorneys at Wolf Law have extensive experience helping those charged with DUI and DWAI. Please call us at 720-479-8574 or contact us online to arrange your free consultation.
