Officers use field sobriety tests to determine whether to arrest you for DUI. You are not required to perform these tests.
Most DUIs begin with a roadside traffic stop. The officer may have seen you break some traffic rule, and may or may not have a reason to suspect you of driving under the influence. Nonetheless, the officer will be on the lookout for signs of drinking, drug use or impairment. All law enforcement officers are trained to look for these signs.
Usually the officer won’t be sure whether you are intoxicated or not. In other cases, they have already made a snap judgment and are looking for any evidence to back it up. Either way, they may ask you to perform what is known as a field sobriety test.
Field sobriety tests are small challenges that (theoretically) would be easy for a sober driver, but not for an impaired driver. Examples include:
- Walk on a line in a parking lot without stepping off
- Standing on one leg for 30 seconds
- Walking and turning around
- Following an object with your eyes
It’s important to understand that you are not required to take these tests. You can politely decline the test without giving a reason why. The officer may still arrest you for DUI, but now they cannot claim you looked wobbly. If you did perform a field sobriety test during your arrest, a DUI lawyer can fight the results.
Have you been charged with DUI? We can connect you with an experienced Los Angeles DUI lawyer and get you a FREE consultation. Fill out the form to the right or call (310) 896-2724 and get your free consultation today.
