Field sobriety tests are commonly used by law enforcement officers to determine if a driver is under the influence of alcohol or drugs. However, these tests are not always accurate and can lead to false arrests and convictions. In this blog post, we will discuss the science behind field sobriety tests, their flaws, and how to challenge them in court with the help of a skilled DUI attorney from Ahmad & Associates.
The Science Behind Field Sobriety Tests
Field sobriety tests are designed to assess a driver's balance, coordination, and cognitive abilities, which can be impaired by alcohol or drug use. The three most common tests used by law enforcement officers are the Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus (HGN) test, the Walk-and-Turn (WAT) test, and the One-Leg Stand (OLS) test.
- Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus (HGN) Test: This test involves an officer observing a driver's eyes as they follow a moving object, such as a pen or flashlight. The officer is looking for involuntary jerking movements in the eyes, which can be a sign of impairment.
- Walk-and-Turn (WAT) Test: In this test, the driver is asked to walk in a straight line, heel-to-toe, for nine steps, turn around, and walk back the same way. The officer will look for signs of impairment, such as difficulty balancing, starting too soon, or not following instructions.
- One-Leg Stand (OLS) Test: The driver is asked to stand on one foot while counting out loud for 30 seconds. The officer will look for signs of impairment, such as swaying, using arms for balance, or putting the foot down before the time is up.
While these tests may seem straightforward, they are not foolproof and can lead to false arrests and convictions. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the HGN test is only 77% accurate, the WAT test is 68% accurate, and the OLS test is 65% accurate when performed correctly. These percentages decrease even further when the tests are not administered properly.
Challenging Field Sobriety Tests in Court
If you have been arrested for a DUI based on the results of a field sobriety test, it is crucial to work with an experienced DUI attorney who understands the science behind these tests and can challenge their validity in court. Here are some common strategies for challenging field sobriety test results:
- Questioning the Officer's Training and Experience: A skilled attorney can question the arresting officer's training and experience in administering field sobriety tests, as well as their ability to accurately interpret the results.
- Highlighting External Factors: There are many external factors that can affect a driver's performance on field sobriety tests, such as weather conditions, road conditions, and even the driver's footwear. A knowledgeable attorney can point out these factors and argue that they contributed to the driver's poor performance on the tests.
- Presenting Alternative Explanations: Medical conditions, such as inner ear disorders, neurological conditions, or even fatigue, can cause a driver to perform poorly on field sobriety tests. An attorney can present evidence of these conditions and argue that they, rather than alcohol or drug use, were the cause of the driver's poor performance.
At Ahmad & Associates, our team of experienced DUI attorneys understands the science behind field sobriety tests and how to challenge their validity in court. If you have been arrested for a DUI based on the results of a field sobriety test, contact us today for a consultation. We will work tirelessly to protect your rights and fight for the best possible outcome in your case.
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