Field sobriety tests are tools used by police officers to gauge whether or not a driver is too intoxicated to safely operate a vehicle. Field sobriety tests challenge the driver’s physical and mental coordination and ability to follow instructions. The theory behind field sobriety testing is if a driver cannot successfully perform the test, then he or she is not capable of safely operating a vehicle. This indication gives the police officer reasonable cause to arrest the driver on DUI charges.

What are Field Sobriety Tests?

Although there are multiple types of field sobriety tests, drivers are usually required to perform one or more of the following tests: 

Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus

To perform the horizontal gaze nystagmus an officer will hold a small object, such as a pen or flash light, several inches from the driver’s face. The driver will then be instructed to follow the movement of the object with his/her eyes. If the driver cannot follow the object, or if the driver’s eyes twitch, it is a sign of intoxication.

Walk and Turn Test

To perform the walk and turn test the officer will instruct the driver to take nine heel-to-toe steps in a straight line, turn, and repeat the action in the opposite direction. If the driver cannot walk in a straight line or does not follow the officer’s instructions, the police officer has cause to believe the driver is intoxicated.

One Leg Test

The one leg test is performed by the driver starting with his/her feet together, arms by the side. The driver is then instructed to raise one leg six inches of the ground while balancing on the other leg and counting out loud. If the driver hops, wobbles, raises his/her arms, or loses balance in anyway, the officer will consider him/her intoxicated.

Contact San Diego DUI Lawyers

If you have been arrested for DUI after performing a field sobriety test, it’s important to hire a San Diego DUI attorney who has the knowledge and skills to challenge the accuracy and objectivity of these tests in court. Field sobriety tests are not only prone to inaccuracies, but they are also highly subjective, designed for failure, and scientifically unreliable.  The Law Offices of Virginia Landry will aggressively question the arresting officer, investigate whether or not he/she had probable cause to arrest you, and relentlessly defend you against the charges. When you come to the Law Offices of Virginia Landry, you can feel confidant knowing that your San Diego DUI lawyer will devote 100% of her time, energy, and resources to help you to overcome your charges to win your case!

To speak with an experienced San Diego DUI defense attorney, please contact the Law Offices of Virginia Landry at (619) 255-7494.