Imagine driving home after a long day when suddenly, flashing lights appear in your rearview mirror. Your heart races as you pull over, wondering what will happen next.
Many drivers find themselves uncertain and anxious when it comes to sobriety tests. These tests can significantly impact the outcome of a drunk driving charge. Let’s explain what you need to know about these tests and how they might affect you.
What you need to know
When a police officer suspects a driver might be under the influence, they use a series of tests called standardized field sobriety tests. These evaluations assess whether a driver might be impaired. Common tests include:
- Walk and turn: For this test, authorities may ask you to walk following a straight line, heel-to-toe, for a certain number of steps, turn on one foot and return. This tests your ability to follow instructions and maintain balance.
- Horizontal gaze nystagmus (HGN): In this test, the officer will ask you to follow a moving object, like a pen, with your eyes. They’re looking for involuntary jerking of your eyes, which can indicate intoxication.
- One-leg stand: For this test, you’ll need to stand on one leg while counting numbers out loud until the law enforcement officer tells you to stop. This assesses your coordination and balance.
These tests are simple for most sober individuals. However, they can become challenging if you’ve been drinking, and that’s why officers use them.
While these tests seem straightforward, they aren’t foolproof. Various factors can affect performance, including medical conditions, physical disabilities, anxiety or uneven road surfaces. It’s important to remember that these tests are only one part of the evidence used in a drunk driving charge.
Getting legal help
If you believe that a sobriety test was unfairly administered or that your performance was affected by something other than alcohol, it’s crucial to share this information with your attorney. An experienced lawyer can help evaluate the circumstances and argue your case effectively.