Which sample is the final result when using the intoximeter?

Which sample is the final result when using the intoximeter?

• A. The first BAC sample
• B. The higher BAC sample
• C. The average of the two samples
• D. The lower BAC sample

Answer: (D)

Two breath samples are typically taken to confirm BAC with an intoximeter. Because measurements can be influenced by factors like mouth alcohol, recent substances, or slight technique variations, the final BAC reported is the lower of the two readings. This approach helps avoid overstating impairment due to a spuriously high measurement and aims to reflect the true alcohol level more accurately. Reported BAC would thus be the lower reading rather than the higher one, rather than simply using the first sample or averaging in a way that could overestimate intoxication.

Two breath samples are typically taken to confirm BAC with an intoximeter. Because measurements can be influenced by factors like mouth alcohol, recent substances, or slight technique variations, the final BAC reported is the lower of the two readings. This approach helps avoid overstating impairment due to a spuriously high measurement and aims to reflect the true alcohol level more accurately. Reported BAC would thus be the lower reading rather than the higher one, rather than simply using the first sample or averaging in a way that could overestimate intoxication.