There are 3 field sobriety tests that are standardized by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). However, the first test given by officers, horizontal gaze nystagmus (HGN) is not admissible in Tennessee courts. HGN is more commonly known as the “they made me follow some pen with my eyes” test. Here officers are looking for involuntary jerking of the eyes at various speeds and positions.
The two most common field sobriety tests used in Tennessee to determine an individual’s level of intoxication are the “walk and turn” and “one-leg stand” tests. Here is what you can expect from each if asked to perform them during a traffic stop.
Walk & Turn Test
You will be asked to take 9 steps heel-to-toe- in a straight line with your arms at your sides, then turn on one foot and repeat the process in the opposite direction. During this test the officer will be watching for:
- Failure to maintain balance while listening to the instructions
- Failure to maintain the heel-to-toe position before and/or during the test
- Failure to maintain a straight line while walking
- Starting before being told to begin
- Stopping while walking
- Leaving space between the heel and toe while walking
- Using arms to balance
- Removing the front foot from the line while turning
- Taking the incorrect number of steps
- Swaying while balancing
- Using the arms to maintain balance
- Hopping to maintain balance
- Putting the foot back down before being told to do so