Even if someone has been pulled over or in an accident, taken a field sobriety test, submitted to a breathalyzer or blood test, and everything indicates a DUI charge, there are still ways to challenge the charges. For instance, nervousness or fatigue can cause a person to fail a DUI field sobriety test. Breathalyzers require routine maintenance and calibration that is not always performed. Blood tests can be mishandled. Any one of these things can be grounds for challenging a DUI charge. A good attorney well versed in the defense of DUI charges can help anyone fight the DUI charge they are facing.
ABC10 reports on Tom Patti, a San Joaquin Supervisor who is facing DUI charges that he believes his lawyer and the process will straighten out.
The charges stem from a July 25th accident in which Patti, who was driving a 2015 Chevrolet Tahoe, slammed into the back of 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme. The Oldsmobile was propelled forward into a 2011 Toyota Prius.
After the crash, a California Highway Patrol officer observed objective signs of intoxication from Patti. A DUI investigation was conducted and Patti was arrested at the scene. He spent several hours at the San Joaquin County Jail.
Following the accident, Patti issued a statement that neither alcohol nor illegal drugs were a factor in the accident.
Patti maintains that he took a field sobriety test at the scene of the accident. He also maintains that he submitted to a blood test.
On January 9th, charges were filed against Patti, nearly five months after the accident. He is facing DUI charges as well as enhancement charges for refusing a chemical test.
In a statement, Patti said that he respected the system’s process and that he and his attorney would address matters as they presented themselves.
