DUI Field Sobriety Test

by | Dec 3, 2018 | DUI

One of the main tools that the government has in proving that an accused is guilty of DUI are Field Sobriety Tests. vehicular homicide The Standardized Field Sobriety Test given by law enforcement officers in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania are typically an accumulation of three main tests, which are performed by drivers during a traffic stop to determine whether or not they are impaired. These three tests typically include the walk-and-turn, the horizontal gaze nystagmus, and the one leg stand. As a result of these tests, police can and will determine whether or not they possess probable cause to arrest a driver on suspicion of driving under the influence. The HGN test is given by an officer who slowly holds a moving object, such as a pen or small flashlight. Three indicators of this test are looked at by the officer and these determine impairment. These indicators include: if the eye cannot properly follow a moving object, if jerking of the eyeball is distinct, and if the angle of jerking occurs before the 45-degree angle.

In using DUI Field Sobriety tests, officers also use the Walk-and-turn test. The walk-and-turn test requires drivers to take nine steps with their feet heel to toe, while turning and completing this the opposite way. should I apply for ARD? Some indicators that officers look for are whether or not the accused is able to keep balance while listening to the officer, whether the accused starts the test before being told to do so, and whether the accused steps out of line. The last test is the one leg stand which permits drivers to stand on one leg, with their other leg 6 inches off the ground. Drivers are instructed to count aloud starting with one thousand. Other tests may include the finger to nose, counting backwards, and reciting the alphabet. Field sobriety tests are voluntary and drivers have the right to refuse the test. However, an arrest may be made if the officer believes the driver is impaired. Once under arrest, drivers are required to take a tests which can later create problems if refused.

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