Avoiding a DUI: Is There an App for That?
Your cell phone now may be able to help you avoid a DUI. Recently, several developers have created applications designed to tell users when they have had too much alcohol to operate a motor vehicle.
SCHAUMBURG, IL, February 06, 2012
Avoiding a DUI: Is There an App for That?Cell phone owners may have a new use for their favorite device. In addition to providing access to a host of applications for staying in touch with friends, tracking weather, playing games, shopping and keeping tabs on our expenses, your cell phone now may be able to help you avoid a DUI. Recently, several developers have created applications designed to tell users when they have had too much alcohol to operate a motor vehicle. It remains to be seen if the application is accurate or reliable enough to be of any use.
How It Works
The app is based on a common field sobriety test known as the horizontal gaze nystagmus (HGN) test. Alcohol in the bloodstream causes people to suffer alcohol gaze nystagmus (AGN). This form of nystagmus shows up as a jerking movement of the eye as it moves from looking straight ahead to looking to the side. The cell phone app takes pictures of the eye as it moves to determine whether or not you are over the legal limit of 0.08 to drive in Illinois.
While the creators claim their application has scientific backing, critics are concerned that individuals who do not understand how to administer the test cannot possibly rely on the results to make such an important decision. They warn that a person who is impaired by alcohol is unlikely to make the right decision based on a cell phone application. As always, you should use good judgment and find a designated driver rather than risk facing Illinois' stiff DUI penalties.
Breath, blood and urine tests are considered the best evidence of blood alcohol content. Of the commonly administered field sobriety tests, the HGN test could be considered the least unreliable option. Concerns about the HGN test generally center on whether it is administered properly, as inexperience, inattention or impatience can lead even a trained officer to make a mistake. There are several forms of nystagmus that are not related to alcohol consumption. It is not clear if the application can distinguish those forms of nystagmus from AGN. Despite the potential drawbacks, the creation of an accurate detector of intoxication could go a long way toward preventing accidents and deaths related to driving under the influence.
No matter how advanced an application is, if you ever question whether you are capable of safely operating a vehicle after consuming alcohol, it is always better to find a someone sober to do the driving. A DUI arrest and conviction can land you in jail, cost you your license and lead to thousands of dollars in fines and other expenses. If you find yourself facing a DUI charge, you will need to use that cell phone to call an experienced attorney to defend you in court.
Article provided by Michael T. Norris, Ltd. and John W. Callahan, Ltd.
Illinois DUI Defense Case Examples
DUI Defense Lawyer Reviews
Schaumburg Criminal Defense Law Office
One Woodfield Place 1701 East Woodfield Road Suite 1101 Schaumburg , IL, 60173
Schaumburg Law Office Directions
Website: http://www.dupagecountycriminallaw.com