Field sobriety tests are physical and cognitive exercises used by law enforcement to assess impairment due to alcohol or drugs during a traffic stop. These tests aim to gauge balance, coordination, and attention.
Field sobriety tests can involve legal complexities, so motorists should be aware of the various aspects of these tests. However, it’s wise to consult a driving while intoxicated lawyer if you’re ever found guilty of DWI.
Types of Field Sobriety Tests
Here are the common field tests used to assess drivers’ sobriety:
Walk and Turn Test
This classic test involves walking a straight line, heel-to-toe, for a specified number of steps, then turning and walking back. The walk-and-turn test assesses both balance and the ability to follow instructions, common challenges for someone under the influence.
One-Leg Stand
The One-Leg Stand test involves standing on one leg for approximately 30 seconds, to test for balance and coordination. If you’re impaired, you will likely struggle with this task, a glaring sign of potential intoxication.
Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus (HGN)
The officer moves an object, like a pen, horizontally to observe involuntary eye jerking, which can be intensified by alcohol or drugs. The Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus test checks for the presence of nystagmus, a clear indicator of impairment.
Finger-to-Nose Test
Participants touch their noses with their fingertips, alternating between hands, often with their eyes closed. The objective of this test is to evaluate coordination, a skill that impairment can significantly hinder.
Alphabet or Counting Backward
Reciting the alphabet or counting backward tests cognitive function and the ability to perform mental tasks under stress. Intoxicated motorists may struggle with this task due to impaired cognitive abilities.
Modified Romberg Balance Test
Modified Romberg Test involves standing with feet together, head tilted back, and eyes closed, and is required to estimate 30 seconds. This field sobriety test assesses various factors, including:
- Balance
- Internal clock calibration, and
- The impact of impairment on time perception.
Rhombus Balance Test
Walking in a rhombus or diamond shape, this test evaluates balance and the ability to follow a prescribed path. Impaired drivers may struggle with precise movements and maintaining a designated course.
Eyes Convergence Test
This test focuses on a stimulus moved toward the nose to test your eyes’ ability to converge. Impairment can lead to difficulties in eye movement coordination, evident in this test.
Preliminary Alcohol Screening (PAS) Test
A handheld breathalyzer is used to measure the blood alcohol content (BAC) in a person’s breath. While not a field sobriety test per se, this test aids in determining the presence of alcohol, influencing an officer’s decision to conduct further tests.
Hand Pat Field Sobriety Test
Suspects pat their hands on their thighs while counting aloud, testing coordination and multitasking. Impaired drivers may struggle to maintain the rhythm and demonstrate smooth, controlled movements.
Alternative Sentencing Options for DWI Offenders
Below are the alternative sentencing options for DWI offenders:
Rehabilitation
Rehabilitation involves attending a program that provides counseling, therapy, medication, or other services to help the offender overcome their substance abuse problem. The duration and intensity of the program may vary depending on the offender’s needs and the court’s order.
Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) Victim Impact Program
The MADD option requires the offender to attend a session where they hear from victims or survivors of drunk driving crashes. The goal is to sensitize them to the consequences of their actions and to foster empathy and remorse.
Community Service
Community service involves performing unpaid work for a nonprofit organization, a government agency, or a public benefit project. The type and amount of work may depend on the offender’s skills, interests, and availability. Community service can help the offender give back to society, develop positive habits, and avoid negative influences.
Electronic Monitoring with a SCRAM Device
This option involves wearing a device that monitors the offender’s alcohol consumption through their skin. The device sends data to a monitoring center, which alerts the court if the offender violates the terms of their probation. Electronic monitoring can help the offender stay sober, comply with the law, and avoid jail time.
Sober Living
This option involves living in a residence that provides a supportive and structured environment for people recovering from substance abuse. The residence may have rules, such as curfews, chores, meetings, and drug testing. Sober living can help the offender maintain their sobriety, build social skills, and transition to independent living.
Enrollment in a DUI School
This option involves attending a course that educates the offender about the effects of alcohol and drugs on driving, the laws and penalties for DWI, and the strategies to prevent future offenses.
Field sobriety tests serve as the basis for determining whether a more precise chemical test is needed. Seeking legal advice is essential to navigate the legal complexities and protect your rights.