How accurate are field sobriety tests?

Posted on February 11, 2015 in Field Sobriety Tests

If you are stopped by officers in Arizona because they suspect you of driving drunk, you may be faced with a number of tests. Whether or not you have been drinking, this can be a distressing experience as even if you are completely sober you may worry that the test results could be misleading. As such, you might decide to refuse the tests altogether. However,it is important to note that if you do so, this could lead to the suspension of your driver’s license.

One form of test you may be asked to perform is a field sobriety test. This can involve several components and is a physical test designed to determine whether your movement or responses are impaired. This can include asking you to hop on one foot, follow a moving object with your eyes or walk in a straight line.

Of course, there are many reasons someone might fail these tests. You may have a disability, be stressed and upset by the investigation or simply have poor balance. According to statistics, these tests indicate impairment from alcohol accurately roughly 91 percent of the time. This means that almost one tenth of results are incorrect. Failing these tests usually results in a Breathalyzer test being carried out, but these too are not always accurate.

If you have been charged with drunk driving or you feel that you have been subject to an investigation that did not follow protocol, an attorney may be able to advise you. He or she can evaluate the specifics of your arrest and may be able to assist you informing your defense and working toward avoiding conviction.