Drunk Driving and Hospital Records
LegalMatch Law Library Managing Editor, Ken LaMance, Attorney at Law 
Are Hospital Records of Blood Alcohol Tests Private?
Like all hospital records, blood alcohol tests are confidential in many situations. However, if you were arrested for drunk driving / DUI / DWI and sent to a hospital for blood alcohol tests, certain people are legally allowed access to those records.
Who Has a Right to Access Hospital Records?
Access to hospital records can be allowed when there is a legal inquiry into the results of a blood alcohol test by:
- The police: law enforcement officials can access your hospital records if they get a warrant from a judge. A judge will issue a warrant if the police show that there is reasonable cause to believe you violated drunk driving / DUI / DWI laws. Reasonable cause will be based on police officers' observations at the time of your arrest.
- The victims: if you are alleged to have injured other persons because of your drunk driving / DUI / DWI, they may file a civil suit against you. In a civil suit, the victims can subpoena your hospital records to try and prove that you caused their injuries.
Do I Need an Attorney?
If you are charged with violating drunk driving / DUI / DWI laws, or are being sued by others for allegedly causing their injuries in an accident, it is very important that you speak to an attorney with experience in drunk driving / DUI / DWI cases immediately to protect your rights.
Consult a Lawyer - Present Your Case Now!
Last Modified: 10-04-2010 03:48 PM PDT
