When you are a pulled over by a police officer and are suspected of drinking and driving, there is a good chance that you will be asked to perform the standardized field sobriety tests. This is a combination of three tests that the officer will use to determine if you are impaired. These tests were developed several decades ago, have been scientifically validated, and are admissible in court as evidence in most states. Keep reading to find out what you need to know about each of these field sobriety tests and if they are required of you.

The Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus Test

An unintentional jerking of the eyeball, horizontal gaze nystagmus tends to occur when your eyes look to the side. As a general rule, nystagmus will occur when your eyes look to high peripheral angles. However, if you are impaired, then it may occur at different angles.

So, during this test, an officer will observe your eyes as you are watching his or her finger, a flashlight or a pen, which he or she will be moving horizontally. The officer is looking to see if you are able to smoothly follow the object, if there is any distinct jerking of your eyes, and the angle at which the jerking occurs.

The Walk-and-Turn Test

With this test, you will be asked to take nine steps forward, then turn, and take nine steps back to where you were initially standing. You will be asked to stand with your hands by your side and only begin the test when instructed to do so. When taking your steps, you must make them heel-to-toe and you must walk on a line without stepping off that line or without stopping.  

The officer is looking for signs of impairment. These signs would include failing to follow instructions, failing to keep your balance, stepping off the line, using your arms to maintain your balance, failing to touch heel-to-toe, taking an incorrect number of steps, and even making an improper turn.

The One-Leg Stand Test

When performing this test, you will need to place both of your hands at your sides. Then, with both of your legs straight, you will need to raise one of your legs up about six inches off the ground. You will need to remain in this position while counting aloud until the officer tells you that you can put your leg down. Generally, this will last for about 30 seconds.

The officer is going to look for signs of impairment, which include using your arms to remain balanced, swaying while balancing, hopping to maintain your balance, and, of course, putting your leg down.

Am I Required To Perform These Tests?

It is important to understand that these standardized field sobriety tests are not required of you. You are allowed to politely decline them. If you are forced by the officer to perform these tests, then there is a chance that your rights were violated. Whether you forced to perform the tests and you performed them of your own free will and were arrested, it is imperative that you contact a DUI attorney immediately to discuss your options moving forward. Visit a site like http://www.chichesterlaw.com for more help.

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