When a police officer pulls someone over in Steamboat Springs on suspicion of DUI, they are trained to look for specific signs of impairment: slurred speech, bloodshot eyes, unsteady balance, confusion, or the smell of alcohol. But what many people don’t realize is that several legitimate medical conditions can mimic intoxication, leading to wrongful DUI arrests in Colorado.
At The Brown Law Firm in Steamboat Springs, we have seen firsthand how underlying health issues can be mistaken for alcohol or drug impairment. Understanding these medical explanations can be critical to building a strong DUI defense.
Acid Reflux and GERD: The Hidden Breath Test Problem
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and chronic acid reflux can significantly impact breathalyzer results. When acid reflux occurs, stomach contents, including alcohol can travel back up into the esophagus and mouth. Breath testing devices are designed to measure deep lung air, but the presence of residual alcohol in the mouth can produce a falsely elevated BAC reading.
In DUI cases, this is known as “mouth alcohol contamination,” and it can artificially inflate results. Without proper observation periods and procedures, breath tests may not be reliable evidence.
Diabetes and Ketoacidosis
Diabetes, particularly when blood sugar is poorly controlled at times can produce symptoms that closely resemble intoxication:
- Slurred speech
- Confusion
- Disorientation
- Unsteady balance
- Fruity or alcohol-like breath odor
In cases of diabetic ketoacidosis, the body produces ketones that can emit a smell similar to alcohol. Certain breath testing devices may even misinterpret ketones as ethanol, leading to inaccurate readings.
A diabetic episode can look strikingly similar to DUI impairment during roadside field sobriety testing.
Neurological Disorders and Balance Issues
Conditions affecting the brain or nervous system can impair coordination, speech, and cognition. Examples include:
- Multiple sclerosis
- Epilepsy
- Parkinson’s disease
- Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
- Inner ear disorders
Standardized Field Sobriety Tests (SFSTs) such as the walk-and-turn or one-leg stand require balance and physical coordination. Individuals with neurological or vestibular conditions may struggle with these tests even when completely sober. Unfortunately, officers may interpret these physical limitations as signs of impairment.
Fatigue and Sleep Deprivation
Extreme fatigue can mimic alcohol intoxication in powerful ways. Research shows that being awake for extended periods can impair reaction time and judgment similar to alcohol consumption.
Symptoms may include:
- Delayed responses
- Poor coordination
- Glassy or red eyes
- Slowed speech
- Difficulty following instructions
In a busy mountain town like Steamboat Springs, where residents and visitors often work long shifts or travel long distances, fatigue is common. Yet it can easily be misinterpreted during a DUI investigation.
Prescription Medications and Lawful Drug Use
Many legally prescribed medications can cause side effects that resemble impairment, including:
- Anti-anxiety medications
- Sleep aids
- Muscle relaxers
- Antidepressants
- Blood pressure medications
Even when taken exactly as prescribed, these medications may cause drowsiness, slowed reflexes, or coordination challenges.
Colorado law prohibits driving while “substantially incapable” due to drugs — including lawful prescriptions. However, simply having a medication in your system does not automatically mean you were impaired. This distinction is critical in DUI drug cases (DUID).
Why This Matters in a Colorado DUI Case
DUI arrests often rely on:
- Officer observations
- Field sobriety tests
- Breath or blood test results
When medical conditions are involved, each of these areas can be challenged. A proper DUI defense may involve:
- Reviewing body camera footage
- Examining medical history
- Consulting medical experts
- Analyzing breath or blood testing procedures
At The Brown Law Firm in Steamboat Springs, we understand that DUI cases are not always as straightforward as they appear. Medical explanations can change the entire narrative of a case.
Arrested for DUI in Steamboat Springs?
If you were arrested for DUI in Routt County and believe a medical condition played a role, it is critical to speak with an experienced DUI defense attorney immediately.
A DUI conviction in Colorado can carry serious penalties, including license suspension, fines, ignition interlock requirements, and possible jail time. But not every DUI arrest is justified — especially when health conditions are mistaken for intoxication.
The Brown Law Firm aggressively defends clients facing DUI charges in Steamboat Springs and throughout Northwest Colorado. Contact us today to discuss your case and protect your rights.
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