DUI INVESTIGATION

Standardized Field Sobriety Tests

SFST stands for Standardized Field Sobriety Tests, and they are a battery of tests used by law enforcement officers to determine if a driver may be under the influence of alcohol or drugs during a DUI (Driving Under the Influence) investigation. These tests were developed by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in the United States and are considered standardized because they have specific, uniform procedures for administration and scoring.

It's important to note that the accuracy of SFSTs relies on proper administration by the officer. Additionally, certain medical conditions, physical disabilities, or environmental factors may affect an individual's ability to perform these tests accurately.

While SFSTs can provide valuable information during a DUI investigation, they are not foolproof, and their results are often used in conjunction with other evidence, such as breathalyzer or blood test results, to build a case against a suspected impaired driver. If someone is arrested based on SFST performance, it's advisable to consult with a legal professional who can assess the circumstances surrounding the arrest.

Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus (HGN):

This test involves the officer observing the driver's eyes as they follow a stimulus (such as a pen or flashlight) moving horizontally. Nystagmus refers to the involuntary jerking of the eyes, and the presence of nystagmus at certain angles may indicate impairment.

Walk-and-Turn (WAT)

In this test, the driver is instructed to take nine steps along a straight line, heel-to-toe, turn on one foot, and return in the same manner. The officer looks for specific indicators of impairment, such as losing balance, stepping off the line, or failing to follow instructions.

One-Leg Stand (OLS):

The driver is asked to stand on one leg and count aloud for a specified duration. The officer looks for signs of impairment, such as swaying, hopping, or putting the foot down.