What role does the preliminary breath test (PBT) play in a DUI investigation?

The preliminary breath test (PBT) serves a crucial role in the initial stages of a DUI investigation by offering an early evaluation of a subject's blood alcohol concentration (BAC) level. This quick screening tool helps law enforcement officers determine whether there is sufficient reason to proceed with further investigation, such as arresting the individual. The results from the PBT can inform officers about the probable level of impairment and guide their subsequent actions, including whether to administer additional tests or evaluations.

While the PBT is useful for initial assessments, it is not a definitive test for impairment; that role is filled by more comprehensive tests conducted later, such as a blood test or more calibrated breath tests at a police station. Moreover, the PBT results do not confirm or deny the outcomes of field sobriety tests, which evaluate physical coordination and cognitive function. Lastly, while the PBT can be used for all drivers, including commercial drivers, it is not exclusively reserved for them, further underscoring the broader applicability of this tool in DUI investigations.