DWI Information
A "roadside breath test," also called a preliminary alcohol screening test or "PAS," indicates the presence and/or concentration of alcohol based on a breath sample. You will be asked to blow into a breath meter. The purpose in giving this test is to determine if there is enough reasonable cause to arrest you for driving under the influence.

While you generally may refuse to take the test, your refusal may not stop the officer from arresting you if there is other evidence of alcohol usage (e.g., slurred speech, bloodshot eyes, clumsiness) that would affect your ability to drive. Your refusal might also have other negative consequences, as discussed below.

DWI Answers
The officer is supposed to give a warning of your right to remain silent and tell you that anything you say may be used against you in a court of law (your 5th Amendment rights) and that you have a right to consult an attorney, and if you can not afford one you have a right to have a lawyer appointed for you (your 6th Amendment rights) after s/he arrests you. Sometimes officers do not. The only consequence of failing to tell you is that the prosecution cannot use any of your answers to questions asked by the police after the arrest.

Of more consequence in most cases is the failure to advise you of the state's "implied consent" law, that is, your legal obligation to take a chemical test and the results if you refuse. This can impact the suspension of your license.