Can I Choose My Chemical Test if I'm Arrested for DUI?

Rhode Island police have three chemical tests they can use to determine if you have been driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Police are legally allowed to test your:

  • Breath
  • Blood
  • Urine

In most cases, Rhode Island police officers will elect to issue a breath or blood test if they suspect a driver is under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

You might be wondering if you have the right to choose which test you take if you are pulled over and asked to submit to a DUI test. In the state of Rhode Island, motorists can’t decide between tests if they prefer one method over another. If the police have reasonable grounds to believe you have been operating a motor vehicle under the influence, and they request you to submit to a test, you have the right to either submit to the test being offered or refuse and face the consequences.

When a person asks for another testing method, police generally give them one more chance to submit to the test before they decide if the driver has refused the chemical test. It is important to note that if you are taken to the police station, police can usually only provide a chemical breath test, which means you must be transported to a local hospital to have your blood drawn by a registered nurse.

Rhode Island DUI Defense Firm

Have you been accused of DUI in Rhode Island? Do you need help protecting your driving privileges? DUI offenses are serious matters, and a conviction can have a serious impact on your family life, personal life, professional life, and freedom. No matter what charges you are facing, we will use our skills and experience to fight for you and minimize the impact of your arrest.

Contact one of our Rhode Island lawyers to schedule your free consultation with our legal professionals. We can take your call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

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