An Intro to the BI SL3 Portable Alcohol Breathalyzer
The breathalyzer is an important tool that plays a critical role in DUI cases. Specifically, the BI SL3 Portable Alcohol Breathalyzer is frequently used during traffic stops in Alabama. Understanding how these devices work and their legal implications can make a significant difference when you're facing DUI charges.
At Kesling Law Firm, we’ve spent over a decade defending the rights of clients across Baldwin County and the Alabama Gulf Coast. Based in Orange Beach, Alabama, we serve clients in Gulf Shores, Josephine, Foley, Elberta, Summerdale, and beyond.
If you’re unsure about how breathalyzer results impact your case or feel the results may have been inaccurate, it's important to consult with an experienced criminal defense attorney.
The BI SL3 Portable Alcohol Breathalyzer: What You Need to Know
The BI SL3 Portable Alcohol Breathalyzer is a compact and convenient device used to measure blood alcohol content (BAC). Unlike older breathalyzers, the SL3 is more user-friendly and efficient, making it a preferred tool for law enforcement officers handling DUI investigations in Alabama. Some of the primary features that make this tool more appropriate for law enforcement use include:
Portability: The SL3’s small and lightweight design makes it easy for officers to carry and use during routine traffic stops or at DUI checkpoints. Its portability also enables testing under a wide range of environments.
Advanced accuracy: Thanks to fuel cell technology, the BI SL3 provides highly accurate BAC readings by measuring the chemical reaction between alcohol and the device’s sensor. This advancement reduces the likelihood of error, which could otherwise occur with other older breathalyzer models.
Rapid testing: The SL3 boasts quick response and recovery times, meaning multiple tests can be conducted without long waiting periods.
Improved data storage: It allows for storing test data, creating records that law enforcement can later reference. This feature enhances the documentation of roadside testing procedures, which often plays a role in legal proceedings.
While the BI SL3 seems reliable from a technological perspective, no breathalyzer no matter how advanced is completely infallible. Errors, environmental factors, and improper calibration can all affect the accuracy of BAC readings. That’s why challenging the results of a breath test, with a focus on any potential missteps, can form the foundation of a strong DUI defense strategy.
Alabama DUI Laws
Under Alabama law, you will likely be charged with committing a DUI offense if you are found operating a vehicle with a BAC above the legal limit. These limits can vary depending on your age and the type of vehicle you drive, and have been established under Alabama law as:
0.08% or higher for drivers aged 21 or older
0.04% or higher if you’re driving a commercial vehicle
0.02% or higher for drivers under 21 (zero-tolerance rule)
The potential penalties for a DUI conviction can include license suspension, hefty fines, mandatory DUI classes, probation, or even jail time. For second or repeat offenses, the penalties become increasingly severe, with longer license suspensions, higher fines, and lengthier jail sentences.
A breathalyzer reading that indicates an illegal BAC is often a focal point of the prosecution’s evidence during a DUI case. However, if there’s any indication that the device was improperly maintained or incorrectly used by law enforcement, the results may be questioned. Moreover, field sobriety tests, officer observations, and other elements of the traffic stop may also be scrutinized for errors.
Potential Defenses Against DUI Charges
Being charged with a DUI doesn’t mean your case is hopeless. Instead, there are several defenses you and your attorney can use to challenge the charges and work toward a positive outcome. At Kesling Law, there are several factors that we commonly use that could aid in your defense. These include:
Device calibration: The BI SL3 must be properly calibrated before its use. An uncalibrated device can produce inaccurate BAC readings, which could lead to potentially false accusations.
Officer training: The officer administering the test must have the appropriate training to use the device accurately. Untrained offers administering tests could lead to errors in the testing process and unreliable results.
External influences: Environmental, medical, or dietary factors could cause a higher BAC reading. Substances like mouthwash, certain medical conditions, or environmental factors may interfere with the test and provide false-positive results.
Procedural violations: Law enforcement must have probable cause to issue a traffic stop and must administer the BAC test in compliance with your constitutional rights. Failing to follow legal procedures may render the evidence inadmissible in court.
Witness statements: Witnesses can provide valuable testimony regarding sobriety or the events leading up to the arrest. Witness statements can help challenge the prosecution by offering alternative perspectives or confirming the defendant’s version of events.
Field sobriety test accuracy: Field sobriety tests must be administered fairly and recorded by law enforcement. Factors like uneven surfaces, poor lighting, or medical conditions can potentially impact the test and produce unreliable results.
Our firm is dedicated to thoroughly analyzing the circumstances of your stop, the testing process, and the results to review your case and help you set up the best possible defense for the charges against you.
Contact a Criminal Defense Attorney
For over a decade, Kesling Law has represented clients in Orange Beach, Alabama, as well as Baldwin County, and the Gulf Coast, including Gulf Shores, Josephine, Foley, Elberta, and Summerdale. We’re dedicated to standing up for your rights and helping you establish a strong defense for your case.
A DUI charge can significantly impact your life. We strive to provide clear communication and unwavering support throughout the process. If you've been charged with a DUI or require criminal defense support, contact us at Kesling Law today to schedule a consultation.