Diabetes is a troubling disease, no doubt. And it can be a real challenge for someone stopped for DUI. This is so because diabetic reactions can often cause the outward symptoms that mimic, or otherwise mirror, intoxication – the tell-tale signs of … flushed face, drowsiness, impaired coordination, slurred speech, impaired motor control and even dulled mental alertness. In like kind, Ketones related to Diabetes can not only cause bad breath, but can also sometimes cause the odor of alcohol on a person’s breath; diabetes-related halitosis is often traced to high levels of ketones in the blood.
As most Seattle DUI defense attorneys know, as do the prosecutors, a diabetic person who takes a breath test may actually be providing an erroneously high reading. This is so because they have acetone on their breath. One study, in fact, found that a person with diabetes had acetone levels as high as .06. Although Washington State’s breath test instruments do have a checks-and-balances system built into them, they are not perfect. These instruments are often ineffective at detecting ketones, which a diabetic person may very well have on their breath when providing a breath sample. Scary to say the least for someone who is diabetic, but the prospect is real; in short, a diabetic person may appear under the influence, but isn’t.
If you or a loved one is accused of DUI (whether a citizen, or not) you should immediately consult with a qualified Seattle DUI Attorney. A qualified and respected Seattle DUI lawyer, among other things, can quite possibly save the aggrieved person thousands of dollars in court and insurance fees, the extent of loss of privilege to drive, and the amount of jail time to be served. We have said it before and will say it again, Washington DUI laws are far too complicated for any ol’ attorney to handle. Be smart and consult with a qualified and skilled Seattle DUI attorney when arrested for an alcohol and/or drug related DUI in Washington State. SQ Attorneys is here to help – (206) 441-1600.
