What You Should Know About Field Sobriety Tests

Field sobriety tests are roadside tests that challenge the physical and mental coordination of those suspected of driving under the influence. These tests were designed to determine whether or not a person has the control, concentration, and ability to safely operate a vehicle.

While the intention behind these tests is good, in reality these tests can be very inaccurate in determining whether someone is actually too intoxicated to be driving. There are a number of factors that could cause someone to perform poorly on a field sobriety test, even if they weren't drinking, such as:

• Weather conditions
• The conditions on the side of the road
• The type of footwear the driver is wearing
• If there are headlights distracting the driver
• If the driver naturally lacks coordination
• If the driver has a pre-existing disability or illness
• If the police officer gave poor instructions
• If the police officer administered the tests wrong

Find a DUI Attorney

If you or a family member has been charged with DUI or DWI after performing one or more field sobriety tests, it's best to consult an experienced DUI defense attorney right away.  There are many defense strategies an attorney can use to help you fight your charges and question the validity of your test results. In addition, an attorney may also be able to recover evidence that can be used to get your charges reduced or dismissed completely.