The police can stop a vehicle if they believe the driver is inebriated. During that traffic stop, the police may try to collect evidence to support their belief (and justify an arrest)by asking the driver to perform standardized field sobriety tests.
Standardized field sobriety tests require drivers to move in a way that is designed to demonstrate whether they are intoxicated or not. Here are three common types of standardized field sobriety tests:
1. Horizontal gaze nystagmus test
The horizontal gaze nystagmus test requires the driver to stand still while facing forward. The police will hold up a finger, pen, light or other object in front of the driver’s face. The driver will be asked to keep their eye on the object while the police move it from side to side. The driver may be drunk if their eyes twitch uncontrollably.
2. Walk-and-turn test
The driver may be asked to perform a walk-and-turn test. The walk-and-turn test requires a driver to walk in a straight line. After a few paces forward, the driver will be asked to turn around and walk back to where they started. If the driver struggles to walk on a straight line or keep their balance, they may appear inebriated.
3. One-legged stand test
The police may ask the driver to stand up and lift one leg off the ground. The driver will have to hold their leg up for several seconds. If the driver puts their foot down too soon, falls over or can not follow instructions, they may be charged with drunk driving.
Standardized field sobriety tests are not always accurate. In fact, their accuracy can vary greatly depending upon the circumstances and the skill of the tester. Drivers may fail standardized field sobriety tests because of medical problems, anxiety over the situation or even just age. If you are facing a drunk driving charge after performing a standardized field sobriety test, you may want to reach out for legal guidance for help.
