What are the Types of Field Sobriety Tests?
Field Sobriety Test Types
When a law enforcement officer suspects that you have driven drunk, they will use a field sobriety test to help verify their suspicions. There are several types of tests they may perform. The level of accuracy of each varies and sometimes officers will use multiple sobriety tests together. Here is a list of the types of field sobriety tests used by police officers when they suspect you of driving while intoxicated:
- Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus (HGN): The HGN test consists of an officer taking an object such as a pen or flashlight and moving it horizontally. The officer will observe the suspected drunk driver’s eyes as they follow the moving object.
- Walk-And-Turn: You are instructed to take nine steps in a straight line with your feet touching heel-to-toe. After nine steps, you turn around and do it once more.
- One-Leg Stand: You will be asked to hold one foot about 6 inches off the ground and hold it there for 30 seconds. If, while your foot is in the air, you hop, stumble, sway, or use your arms to keep balance, you may be considered intoxicated.
Contact Our DWI Lawyer Today!
Walter L. Rooth III Attorney is a DWI lawyer serving the Orchard Park, NY area. Law enforcement is always on the lookout for drunk drivers. Driving drunk puts yourself, anyone in your vehicle, and other fellow drivers at risk of serious injury. When an officer suspects you of being drunk, they will pull you over and have you perform a field sobriety test. There are several they can choose from, as listed above. Do not worry if you “fail” a sobriety test, this does not mean that you will be charged with a DWI. Our DWI attorney will discuss your legal options and help defend you in your court case. Contact us today to schedule your consultation!
