What is the purpose of a Pre-Screening Breath Test (PBT)?

The purpose of a Pre-Screening Breath Test (PBT) is crucial in the context of determining a driver’s level of impairment due to alcohol consumption. When an officer suspects that a driver may be under the influence, administering a PBT can assist in confirming the basis of that suspicion by providing immediate evidence of the driver’s blood alcohol concentration (BAC). The results of the PBT help the officer to ascertain whether further action is necessary, such as administering more formal tests or making an arrest for driving while intoxicated.

In New York, the PBT is a valuable preliminary tool for law enforcement to evaluate impairment without having to wait for more controlled testing environments, thus streamlining the process of addressing suspected DWI cases.