What is the effect of taking a breathalyzer test during a traffic stop?

The breathalyzer test serves as an important tool in assessing a driver's level of impairment due to alcohol consumption during a traffic stop. When law enforcement officers administer the test, the results can significantly aid in determining whether there is probable cause for an arrest.

While the test may provide a numerical reading indicating blood alcohol concentration (BAC), it does not alone constitute definitive proof of intoxication. Various factors can influence the accuracy of breathalyzer results, including calibration of the device, the timing of the test, and individual physiology. Therefore, although the results are substantial, they are part of a broader evaluation that includes observations of driving behavior, physical coordination, and other field sobriety tests.

In terms of admissibility in court, breathalyzer results are typically considered valid evidence if proper procedures have been followed during administration and the device has been maintained correctly. Additionally, the outcome of a stop can often be influenced by multiple elements, including the driver's behavior and evidence observed by the officer before the test, making it inaccurate to say that the test does not affect the outcome of the stop.

Thus, the primary role of a breathalyzer test is to assist law enforcement in making an informed decision regarding the potential for arrest based on the emerging evidence of impairment.