New York City is taking steps to speed up blood tests for suspected drunken drivers who refuse breath tests after a serious car crash.
Police Commissioner Ray Kelly and the city's five district attorneys announced the changes Sunday. The moves are designed to make sure testing happens soon after a wreck, because a suspect's blood-alcohol level can decline during delays.
Under the old system, police officers took suspects first to the nearest stationhouse and then to one of six special blood testing units around the city. Now suspects will be taken directly to the testing unit.
Several other changes also are planned. Kelly says they will help make sure drunken drivers don't "escape justice through delay.''
Copyright AP - Associated Press
