Does refusing a breathalyzer mean I avoid a DUI conviction?

No. Refusing the breathalyzer eliminates per se BAC evidence but does not prevent a DUI conviction. The prosecution can still pursue DUI charges based on officer observations (driving behavior, speech, balance, odor), field sobriety test performance, witness statements, and the refusal itself as consciousness of guilt. Some DUI prosecutions proceed without any BAC evidence based on officer testimony alone. Refusing the test trades one type of evidence (BAC number) for another type of consequence (automatic suspension + civil charge + refusal evidence at trial). The DUI charge runs parallel to the refusal civil charge.