Why is there a 20-minute wait for a breathalyzer?
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4 min read
Law enforcement agencies require a mandatory observation period of 15 to 20 minutes before administering a breathalyzer test to ensure accuracy. The primary reason is to prevent a phenomenon known as 'mouth alcohol' from contaminating the sample and leading to a falsely elevated reading. Understanding **why is there a 20-minute wait for a breathalyzer** involves examining the physiological factors and legal protocols at play.
