OVI Breath Test Defenses: Exposure to Toulene

In some instances, defendants have argued that exposure to certain chemicals have caused involuntary intoxication.  Commonly, they will cite to the chemical toulene also known as methylbenzene, phenylmethane, and Toluol.  The chemical is a clear water-insoluble liquid with the typical smell of paint thinners, redolent of the sweet smell of the related compound benzene. Toluene is a common solvent, able to dissolve paints, paint thinners, silicone sealants, many chemical reactants, rubber, printing ink, adhesives (glues), lacquers, leather tanners, and disinfectants. The observed effects after consuming dizziness, euphoria, grandiosity, floating sensation, drowsiness, reduced ability to concentrate, slowed reaction time, distorted perception of time...