Field Sobriety Tests

What are Field Sobriety Tests?

Field sobriety tests (FST) are agility tests that law enforcement uses to determine if a person is impaired by drugs and/or alcohol. If a person is suspected to have been driving under the influence, law enforcement may request that the person perform a series of field sobriety tests before deciding to make a DUI arrest.

Inaccuracies of Field Sobriety Tests

Most people think that field sobriety tests can determine if a person is under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol. However, this is not true. In many cases, people have performed poorly during field sobriety tests for reasons other than intoxication. A person can perform poorly or fail the field sobriety tests for several reasons, including: poor lighting, slippery road conditions, poor instructions, and medical conditions that may impair the person’s coordination.

If you have been charged with driving under the influence due to the results of a field sobriety test, it is imperative that you contact a San Diego DUI lawyer. A lawyer will be able to challenge the validity of these test results, and may successfully have your charges reduced or dismissed completely.

The field sobriety test is made of several different tests, with some of these tests varying from state to state. The three tests that are standard to a field sobriety test in every state are:

  • The walk-and-turn: This test has the individual walk nine steps in a “heel-to-toe” fashion, turn around, and walk back the same way they came. It is intended to determine if the person’s balance has been affected by drugs or alcohol.
  • The one-legged stand: This test involves the person standing on one leg for a extended period of time. Like the walk-and-turn, it is used to determine the individual’s balance.
  • The Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus: This test has the individual following an object (usually a pen) with only their eyes. It is used to see if the person can smoothly follow the object, or if their eyes are jerking due to being under the influence.

DUI Defense Attorney in San Diego, CA

Have you recently been arrested in San Diego, CA for drunk driving and/or DUI charges? You need an experienced lawyer to represent you in court. Your San Diego DUI attorney will not only help your case, but will defend you and your constitutional rights. Don’t risk your future, family, employment or reputation after a DUI conviction. Contact DUI Crew to speak with someone who can answer your questions and assist in getting a favorable outcome of your case.
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I was arrested on my 3rd DUI within 10 years and this charge comes with ALOT of problems that I had to face. Howard being the knowledgeable attorney he is was able to reduce my charges and I spent NO TIME IN JAIL. This man knows the law and together with his knowledge and determination I can say that if you get any type of DUI you WANT THIS GUY WITH YOU IN COURT.

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Excellent Attorney!

Howard did an amazing job defending me in my under 21 years of age DUI case, which was a complex and difficult one. He took care of both my DMV hearing and court case in a very efficient and timely manner. I hired Howard because, (1) he listened and was genuinely concerned about my well being, (2) he was honest and did not make any promises about the potential outcome of my case, (3) he kept in touch and informed me each step of the way, (4) he treated me with respect, and (4) his fees were fair and reasonable. I highly recommend Howard to anyone who needs a DUI attorney.

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I was charged with a DUI hit and run with a BAC of .31. I hired Howard to represent me on this case and he was able to dismiss all charges. I recommended him to my friends, and I recommend him to anyone looking for an amazing lawyer. His staff is also very helpful and respectful.

Reduced my charges!

Howard represented me for my DUI case a couple months ago. My BAC level was .22 which is pretty high but he was able to reduce my charges in court to a wet reckless. I hope I don’t get another DUI but if I do, Howard would be my first call.

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