Rhode Island Drunk Driving Lawyer

Field Sobriety Tests

Field Sobriety Tests (FSTs) are a set of exercises given to a person suspected of driving under the influence. Generally speaking, field sobriety testing occurs after you have been pulled over and prior to being arrested. These tests are supposed to be given in order to help the officer determine if you are intoxicated but in practice are usually used to provide additional evidence against you at trial.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is the government agency responsible for researching and regulating Field Sobriety Testing. The first studies related to the effectiveness of such testing were done back in the 1970’s at a University in California. From this study came a set of standardized field sobriety tests that are commonly used today in police departments across America. When administered according to the exact proscribed manner set by the NHTSA, observations of the suspect’s performance will provide evidence of intoxication. If the tests are given by the police officer improperly, any conclusion based on performance is highly suspect. Click on the following links to learn more about the specifics of field sobriety testing.

• Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus
• Nine-Step Walk and Turn
• One Leg Stand
• Conditions
• Non Standardized Field Sobriety Tests

Remember, you have no obligation to take these tests and you cannot be penalized for refusing them. If you are told by the police to perform field sobriety tests, politely refuse and ask to contact an attorney immediately. Rhode Island DUI Defense Attorney James Powderly has been certified in Field Sobriety Testing by former police officers who specialized in DUI enforcement.