If law enforcement officials have pulled you over and think you're impaired by alcohol, they will likely ask you to perform a field sobriety test.These tests generally will not stand up in court as evidence of drunk driving, but they can be used to evaluate for probable cause to administer the Breathalyzer and blood tests.
Evaluating Field Sobriety Tests For Your Defense
At Cochran and Chhabra, LLC, we will carefully evaluate results and determinations of the field sobriety tests to find instances where the prosecution's case against you is built on faulty conclusions.
There are several typical tests that are administered by law enforcement at the scene of the initial DUI arrest. These include:
- Single leg stand - You will be asked to stand on one leg, holding the other leg roughly six inches off the ground, with your arms at your side. You will be expected to stand for no more than 30 seconds, counting aloud until the officer allows you to stop. You will be evaluated for swaying, hopping, putting the foot down and raising your arms for balance.
- Walk and turn test - You will be asked to walk, heel to toe, in a straight line for nine to 12 steps, counting aloud, turning around and walking back. Law enforcement will evaluate for lost balance, stopping or missteps, stepping off the line or instances where your heel does not touch your toe.
- Horizontal gaze nystagmus - The officer will have you follow his hand as he brings it in front of your still face and into your peripheral vision. He will look to see if your eyes bounce as they follow or if there is a jerking at any point in the process.
It is not uncommon, however, for these tests to be administered incorrectly, with insufficient instructions or in inclement conditions. We will carefully review accounts of the situation and find any applicable inconsistencies.
Contact an Anne Arundel DUI Test Lawyer
To arrange a free initial consultation to learn how we can help you defend against these charges, please contact our firm at 410.268.5515 or 888.268.5515.
