Chemical Testing In Rhode Island DUI Cases

Under Rhode Island DUI law, here are the requirements for a valid chemical test:

In order to be admissible at trial, a chemical test must meet 4 requirements.

1. The defendant consented to the test.  If the defendant did not consent, evidence of his or her refusal is not admissible unless the defendant testifies.
2. The defendant received a copy of the test results within 72 hours of the test if it was a breath test, and within 30 days if it was a blood, saliva, or urine test.
3. The methods, equipment, and testers were all authorized  by the state department of health.
4. The defendant was informed by the arresting officer of the right to an additional test and given a reasonable opportunity to obtain one.