Field Sobriety Tests

A field sobriety test is administered after an officer has pulled a driver over for suspected drunk driving. Before making an arrest, the officer will observe the driver for any outward signs which may indicate that he or she has been drinking or using drugs. These signs include bloodshot eyes, slurred speech, open containers of alcohol, and the smell of alcohol. The officer may ask the driver to step out of the vehicle and perform field sobriety tests. Depending upon the officer's observations and the driver's performance on field sobriety tests, the officer may or may not make an arrest for DUI (driving under the influence).

A few examples of Standardized DUI Field Sobriety Tests are:

  • The one-leg stand
  • The walk and turn
  • The horizontal gaze nystagmus test (HGN)

Additionally, officers may include these Non-Standardized DUI Field Tests:

  • Standing with feet together and the top of the head backwards
  • Counting the number of fingers the officer holds up
  • Reciting the alphabet or portions of it backwards
  • Counting backwards
  • Touching your finger to your nose

Were you pulled over for DUI in San Diego? Did you submit to field sobriety tests? At the Law Offices of Mr. Joshua Price, I am experienced in dealing with cases involving failed or refused field sobriety tests. As an accomplished DUI attorney with over two decades of legal experience, I am highly skilled in defending DUI cases throughout San Diego and the surrounding areas in Southern California. Even if you performed poorly on field sobriety tests or failed a breath or blood test, I can accurately assess the situation and determine how to represent your interests for a favorable outcome.

Why Field Sobriety Tests Are Important

Field sobriety tests are usually not considered as important as breath tests or blood tests in relation to California DUI charges. However, they may actually have a significant impact on a driver's case and may influence whether or not the driver is charged. A driver may face DUI charges for having a blood alcohol concentration of .08% or greater (tested using a breath or blood test) or if his or her physical and mental abilities are impaired from alcohol or drugs as determined using field sobriety tests. Therefore, even if a driver were to pass a breath test, there is a possibility that he or she would face DUI charges based on field sobriety test performance.