Field Sobriety Tests

DUI Defense Lawyer in Norfolk

When an officer pulls over a suspect for drunk driving, he or she might conduct a field sobriety test to test intoxication levels. The most popular tests are the one-leg stand, the walk and turn, and the horizontal gaze nystagmus test. The National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration set out guidelines for field sobriety tests in order to standardize them, yet there are still inconsistencies.

If you were arrested for DUI as a result of a field sobriety test, then speak to a Norfolk criminal defense lawyer at Curcione Law, PLC. Our legal team of professionals can carefully investigate the circumstances of your test to check for inaccuracies.

Types of Standardized Field Sobriety Tests

There are three types of field sobriety tests that are accepted as generally accurate. The first is the Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus, which tests the eyes for impairment. The officer will ask the suspect to track the movement of an object such as a pen and look for any involuntary jerking of the eyes. The Walk and Turn Test tests the balance of the suspect by asking them to walk along a line and take a certain number of steps. If the suspect seems unbalanced or takes an incorrect number of steps, the officer might arrest them for intoxication.

The last standardized test is the One-Leg Stand, in which the officer will ask the suspect to stand with one foot six inches off the ground while counting. If the suspect is imbalanced or puts their foot down, then this is an indicator that the suspect has blood alcohol content above the legal limit. Since weather, location, weight, medical issues, and clothing can lead to underperformance, field sobriety tests are not always an accurate measure of intoxication levels.

Failed a Field Sobriety Test?

Obtain representation from tough legal defender at Curcione Law. Field sobriety tests can often be incorrect, which is why you should be sure to hire a Norfolk DUI defense lawyer at our firm. We are committed to providing the best possible legal representation for our clients.