What is a field sobriety test?

A field sobriety test is a test administered by a law enforcement officer on the side of the road to check for intoxication. It is a set of physical exercises used to help determine if a driver is impaired by drugs or alcohol. Field Sobriety Tests (FSTs) are divided into three categories, which include the Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus test, the Walk and Turn test, and the One Leg Stand test. The Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus test involves watching a non-illuminated object, such as a pen or finger, while Officer moves it side to side in front of the suspect’s face. The officer is looking for involuntary jerking of the eye that is caused by alcohol or drug intoxication. The Walk and Turn test requires the suspect to take a series of nine steps, heel to toe, on a straight line, while counting and keeping their hands by their sides. During this test, the officer is looking for signs of impairment, such as balance problems, difficulty counting, and inability to follow instructions. The One Leg Stand test requires the suspect to lift one foot off the ground and count to 30 while keeping their eyes closed and arms extended. The officer is looking for signs of impairment such as swaying, hopping, putting the foot down, or not being able to count. In Florida, if a person fails a field sobriety test, he or she may be arrested and charged with a DUI. It is important to know that the results of a field sobriety test are not always accurate and a person can still be arrested and charged with a DUI even if they pass the test.

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