Jefferson County DUI Attorney

Field Sobriety Tests

When a police officer suspects a person of drunk driving, they will typically request that person to perform a field sobriety test.  Field sobriety tests are used by law enforcement officials to gauge whether or not a driver is intoxicated so they can have probable cause to arrest.  Field sobriety tests may include a number of tasks that essentially measure a person’s motor functions.  In cases where a person has trouble performing a certain action, it may indicate that their nervous system has been affected by alcohol, pointing to DUI.  There are many different types of field sobriety tests that a person may be asked to perform, but only three tests have been scientifically proven to be accurate:

The Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus Test
The driver is instructed to follow a small object’s line of motion with their eyes.  If the driver’s eyes begin to twitch or jerk, it indicates that the driver may be intoxicated. 

The Walk and Turn Test
The driver is instructed to walk in a straight line, taking nine heel-to-toe steps, and repeat the same action in the opposite direction.  The officer is looking to see if the driver follows directions and is able to walk in a straight line without losing balance.

The One Leg Stand Test
The driver is instructed to raise one foot approximately 6 inches off the ground and count out loud for about thirty seconds.  Swaying, hopping, or using arms to maintain balance are signs of intoxication.

All of these tests have at one point deemed to be inaccurate, which is why it is so important to have Jefferson County DUI lawyer Chris Cessna representing you.  As a former police officer, Mr. Cessna has seen firsthand what can go wrong as field sobriety tests are administered and he will know exactly how to challenge these results so that they will not be used to prove guilt for DUI.    

Contact Jefferson County DUI Attorney Christopher H. Cessna today to discuss your field sobriety test!