DWI Blood Alcohol Tests in Alaska
Reader’s Question:
I heard that here in Alaska, blood alcohol test is the most common method used for measuring blood alcohol content. What problems or risks could someone have from having a blood sample taken for blood alcohol testing?
Mark
Anchorage, AK
In Alaska, blood alcohol testing may be the most commonly used method for measuring the blood alcohol content for someone who is suspected for DWI. In the state of Alaska, the legal definition of intoxication would be reaching the point when the blood alcohol content is at or exceeds 0.08%.
There could be a very little chance of a problem from having blood sample taken from a vein. One is that a person may get a small bruise at the site. It could have a lower chance of bruising by keeping pressure on the site for several minutes. In very rare cases, the vein could become swollen after the blood sample is taken. This kind of problem is called phlebitis wherein symptoms include pain or burning along the length of the vein, redness or swelling. To treat this, a warm compress could be used several times a day. Ongoing bleeding could also be a problem for people with bleeding disorders. Warfarin (Coumadin), aspirin and other blood-thinning medicines could make bleeding more likely. If someone has bleeding or clotting problems or takes blood-thinning medicine, he/she should tell the doctor before blood sample is taken.
Drunk Driving in Alaska
Reader’s Question:
I have tried drinking and driving several times and it seems very fortunate for me that I haven’t been caught and charge with DUI . But in case that I get pulled over by an officer in the future because of drunk driving, what are the things that I would have to keep in mind?
Jose
Anchorage, AK
If you have already tried drinking and driving several and still thinking about doing this in the future, there a chance that you could find yourself in some trouble. You might just get a traffic ticket and worse, a DUI charge in Anchorage, Alaska. Because of that, you need to know how to get around DUI when you are out there. Obviously, you have to make some smart decisions.
The police officer who pulled you over will conduct some field sobriety tests to see if you can walk or so on. By law, you are not required to take these tests but if you do and you pass, then you are going to have to continue with the rest of the test.
The police officer may take you to the station if he/she is still convinced that you are drunk. They would administer a breath test that you will not be able to refuse. A lot of the alcohol has burned up by this time and you are going to blow a lot less then you normally would.
Don’t answer any question and make sure you ask for a lawyer. You are getting to the right point if you are able to do this. Answering them is the last thing that you want to do when you are under the influence of alcohol because you might answer wrong. You have to wait for your lawyer to get there and that will be when you will be told to speak while you are bonding out.