Driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol is a serious offense subject to strict penalties worldwide. Police officers use Standardized Field Sobriety Tests (SFSTs) to evaluate suspected impaired drivers before proceeding with an arrest. The results of these field sobriety tests sobriety test serve as crucial evidence in DUI cases, helping to establish impairment.
There are three primary components of the Standardized Field Sobriety Test, which you can easily find demonstrated via online videos for better understanding. These tests include the eye test, walk-and-turn test, and one-leg stand test.
a. Eye Test (Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus): In this assessment, the driver must follow a slowly moving object—typically a pen or small flashlight—held about a foot from their face, moving horizontally. This test detects involuntary eye movements that indicate impairment.
b. Walk-and-Turn Test: The driver is instructed to take nine heel-to-toe steps along a straight line, turn on one foot, and return nine steps back in the same manner. This test evaluates balance, coordination, and ability to follow instructions.
c. One-Leg Stand Test: The driver must stand on one leg while raising the other about six inches off the ground, holding that position for approximately 30 seconds. This challenges balance and physical control.
These three tests are part of the Standardized Field Sobriety Test Video. If a driver fails these initial field sobriety tests, officers typically proceed with additional evaluations such as the Alcohol Breath Analyzer (ABA) test or drug screening tests. Passing either the field sobriety tests or breathalyzer usually means the driver will only face penalties related to the original traffic violation for which they were stopped.
Who Should Take the Standardized Field Sobriety Test?
If a driver fails the field sobriety tests, they are typically required to undergo the Breathalyzer test. Failure in both tests can lead to arrest, jail time, and vehicle impoundment. Refusal to take these tests may result in immediate license suspension or revocation alongside other penalties. However, if the driver passes the field sobriety or breathalyzer test, they are generally not required to undergo further drug screening. For better understanding, video demonstrations of these sobriety tests and the ABA are widely accessible online.
Police officers and law enforcement personnel receive formal training on administering these tests. This training covers an introduction and overview of DUI detection, vehicle-in-motion assessments, personal contact protocols, SFST review, proficiency and written examinations, arrest processing, trial preparation, and legal issues related to impaired driving.
The training is divided into segments. For example, Session Three focuses on reviewing the standardized field sobriety tests through instructional videos covering the horizontal gaze nystagmus, walk-and-turn, and one-leg stand tests, often supplemented with PowerPoint presentations.
An optional segment, the Video Alcohol Workshop, includes NHTSA/IACP-approved videos where participants observe subjects, assess impairment levels, record observations, and later compare their assessments with the subjects’ actual Blood Alcohol Concentrations (BACs). This workshop helps improve the accuracy of impairment evaluations without requiring active practice during the session.
Accuracy of Standardized Field Sobriety Tests
Research indicates the following accuracy rates for these tests:
- Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus (Eye Test): Approximately 77% accurate
- Walk-and-Turn Test: Approximately 68% accurate
- One-Leg Stand Test: Approximately 65% accurate
Overall, the combination of all three tests produces an accuracy rate of about 82% in detecting intoxication.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What happens if I refuse to take a Standardized Field Sobriety Test?
Refusing a field sobriety test or breathalyzer can lead to immediate license suspension or revocation, fines, and other penalties, depending on the jurisdiction. Officers may also proceed with arrest based on other evidence.
Are Standardized Field Sobriety Tests reliable?
While not 100% foolproof, SFSTs have been scientifically validated and maintain a high accuracy rate (around 82%) when conducted properly. However, factors like medical conditions, fatigue, or nervousness can affect results.
Can I request to see videos or explanations of the tests during a DUI case?
Yes, defendants often request access to video demonstrations or training materials related to SFSTs as part of their legal defense to better understand the tests and challenge the results if necessary.
Is the Breathalyzer test more accurate than field sobriety tests?
Breathalyzers generally offer a more objective measurement of blood alcohol content (BAC), whereas field sobriety tests evaluate physical and cognitive impairment. Both methods are commonly used together for DUI enforcement.
Who administers the Standardized Field Sobriety Tests?
Law enforcement officers trained and certified in DUI detection administer these tests during traffic stops when impairment is suspected.
