What is a field sobriety test?

A field sobriety test is an assessment police officers use to determine if someone is under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Field sobriety tests, or FSTs, are administered to drivers suspected of driving while intoxicated (DUI) in the state of California. Typically, FSTs are physical and mental tests administered by an officer on the side of the road. The tests are designed to measure physical coordination, balance, ability to follow directions, and general comprehension. Some common FSTs include the walk-and-turn test, one-leg-stand test, and the horizontal gaze nystagmus test. In the walk-and-turn test, the officer will ask the driver to walk in a straight line, heel-to-toe, for a certain distance. During the one-leg-stand test, the officer will ask the driver to balance on one foot for a designated amount of time. Finally, the horizontal gaze nystagmus test involves an officer watching the driver’s eyes for signs of difficulty in tracking a moving object. The results of the FSTs are used as evidence in DUI cases in California and across the country. While there is no legal requirement that you take an FST if you are pulled over by the police, it is important to note that under California law, you may be charged with a crime if you refuse to take one. If you are charged with a DUI in California, it is important to speak to an attorney who can help you understand what to expect.

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What is a field sobriety test?

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