Field sobriety tests are conducted by law enforcement to ascertain whether a driver is sober. They include tests like the one-leg stand and the walk-and-turn test. Most drivers do these tests since they expect to be released once they pass, only to be arrested after “failing.” However, these tests are not always accurate. Even a sober person can fail the test, which can lead to wrong conclusions.
When the police conduct these field sobriety tests, they have a ranking and scoring system that determines whether or not a driver has passed the test. Many drivers do not know about this scoring system which is among the reasons for disputing the accuracy of field sobriety tests.
What makes field sobriety tests inaccurate?
There are several reasons why these tests are not always accurate. They stem from environmental conditions, the individual driver, or the police officer administering the test. For instance, if the police officer issues the wrong instructions to the driver, who then fails the test, that is not an actual representation of facts.
A nervous driver may also fail to pass these tests, not because of their sobriety but only because they are anxious. In addition, the driver may have a condition like arthritis or poor balance, which might lead to failing the sobriety test. Weather conditions too can lead to slippery roads, which can also be a contributing factor.
You can challenge the accuracy of field sobriety test administered to you
If you were arrested based on an inaccurate field sobriety test, you can challenge its accuracy in court. Given that a lot is at stake upon a conviction, protecting your legal rights when fighting the DWI charges you are facing is necessary. It will only work in your favor if you know what the law says regarding your case.