The Illinois State Police use a variety of tests to determine whether or not someone is intoxicated. These include blood, urine, and breath tests. All three are utilized by law enforcement officers who have probable cause to believe that an individual is operating a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol. Breathalyzers are also used when individuals are taken into police custody for DUI testing.
Breath Tests
Breath testing devices are used to measure blood alcohol content (BAC) by analyzing a person's breath sample. They work by measuring the amount of alcohol vapor exhaled from the lungs and then calculating how much has been consumed based on factors such as weight, height, gender, and time elapsed since drinking began.
You have the right to refuse blood-alcohol tests without consequence but there are risks associated with this decision that must be considered before making up your mind about whether or not to take one. While refusing a breath test may make it more difficult for prosecutors to convict you, your drivers' license faces an automatic 12-month statutory summary suspension regardless of your case outcome.
Field Sobriety Tests
These are common cognitive testing methods that police officers use to determine whether or not someone is intoxicated. The horizontal gaze nystagmus test involves examining for signs of nystagmus, the involuntary jerking of the eyes that often occurs when someone is intoxicated. The walk-and-turn test and one-legged stand test both demonstrate balance and coordination.
Urine and Blood testing
For chemical tests, the arresting police officer will take your blood or urine sample and seal it in a box with their initials on the outside. This box must be photographed before being sent to a lab for testing. Your sample will then be analyzed by licensed medical professionals at a medical facility.