Table of Contents
ToggleBefore you hit the road, it is crucial to understand how local law handles instances of driving under the influence. Each state handles DUI crimes in a different way. But many use the same detection tools on the road.
Field sobriety tests are one of these tools. No matter where you are, you may have to take one if an officer suspects you of driving under the influence.
Non-standardized vs. standardized tests
VeryWell Mind examines field sobriety tests, which serve as a primary detection tool for police. You can find two categories of these tests: standardized and non-standardized. Standardized tests have a unified rubric that all officers across the nation must use when judging the results. Non-standardized tests lack this. That is one of the reasons they are less common. It allows more room for officer bias, as their judgment is the only deciding factor.
Three standardized sobriety tests
There are three standardized field sobriety tests, compared to numerous non-standardized ones. Again, this is because standardized tests must all fit a uniform rubric, which takes time to approve. The three standardized tests include the horizontal gaze nystagmus, the one-legged stand and the walk-and-turn.
Each test checks your balance, dexterity, agility and mobility. Officers also use it as a chance to measure your logic, reasoning and ability to follow instructions. Also, the horizontal gaze nystagmus reveals a potential quiver in your eye while in motion that appears exaggerated when intoxicated.
Officers often use these tests to decide if they should administer further testing, like breath or blood tests. Field sobriety test results are not used as primary evidence in court.
Author Bio
Matthew L. Lopez
Matthew L. Lopez is the Managing Attorney and founder of Matthew Lopez Law, a criminal defense and DUI firm serving clients throughout Arizona. His track record of case dismissals and charge reductions has earned him honors, including a National Trial Lawyers Top 40 Under 40 nomination, a “Superb” 10/10 Avvo rating, and a Rising Star designation by Super Lawyers.
Matthew is a member of the National College for DUI Defense and holds active memberships with the Arizona Association for Criminal Justice and the Arizona Association for Justice. His firm handles criminal defense, DUI, drug charges, and traffic offenses, offering free consultations and affordable payment plans to make quality defense accessible to all Arizonans.
Schedule your Consultation Now
Practice areas
-
Tempe
-
Lake Havasu City
-
Apache Junction
-
Parker
