Basic Information About Field DUI Testing
The standardized field sobriety test is a series of physical exercises a police officer will ask a driver to perform during a DUI stop. The purpose of field sobriety testing is to give the police officer a preliminary basis on which to base a judgment about whether or not the driver is impaired.
It has been shown again and again that even sober individuals often have trouble passing the field sobriety tests.
Did You Know? Taking field sobriety tests is completely voluntary, although the police officer may not make that fact clear during the DUI stop. There will be no legal consequences if a driver refuses to take a field sobriety test. The same cannot be said of refusal to take a Breathalyzer or blood test.
What Are Examples of Field Sobriety Tests?
Field sobriety tests are designed to test a driver's balance, coordination and ability to divide attention among several tasks at the same time. Common field sobriety tests include:
- Following a pen or other small object with the eyes (also called the horizontal gaze nystagmus gaze test or HGN)
- Standing on one leg for a certain length of time
- Walking a straight line heel-to-toe and then turning
- Placing your finger on your nose with eyes closed
- Tilting head back with eyes closed
- Reciting the alphabet or counting backwards
What Does It Mean to Pass or Fail a Field Sobriety Test?
An experienced DUI defense lawyer will know how to defend your DUI case whether you passed the field sobriety tests, failed the tests or refused to take the tests. Our attorneys have in depth knowledge of what officers are looking to identify during these tests and most importantly when the tests are not being administered correctly.
Talk to an Experienced DUI Defense Lawyer After a DWI Arrest
At the Utah criminal defense law firm of Schatz, Anderson & Uday, LLC, our attorneys have all successfully completed the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's (NHTSA) training to administer field sobriety tests. This same training is administered to all Utah police officers. SAU attorney Jason Schatz has also completed the NHTSA training to become qualified as a field sobriety test instructor.
Our law firm has a solid reputation as a successful DUI defense law firm that is not afraid to handle the tough cases. From our office in Salt Lake City, we represent clients statewide, including in and around communities like Ogden and Provo.
To schedule a complimentary consultation, call toll free 866-604-3696 or contact us online.
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