What is required for a blood collection to be valid?

For a blood collection to be valid in the context of DUI traffic stops, it is essential that the blood kit used is not expired. This is critical because an expired blood kit may affect the integrity of the sample, the efficacy of the preservatives, and the overall reliability of the test results. If the kit has expired, it could compromise the accuracy of the blood analysis, leading to potentially misleading results regarding a person's blood alcohol content (BAC) or the presence of drugs.

While there are other protocols and requirements surrounding blood testing—involving the timing of collection and the arrest status of the driver—having a valid, non-expired blood kit ensures that the testing process adheres to the legal and procedural standards necessary for a valid DUI investigation. Collecting blood outside of the prescribed conditions or with improper methods can cast doubt on the evidence, making it crucial for the kit to be within its usable date.