What Are Field Sobriety Tests?
Field sobriety tests are physical exercises that police officers use to assess whether a driver is under the influence of alcohol or drugs. These tests are meant to measure a person’s balance, coordination, and ability to follow instructions. While they are commonly used in DUI cases, they are not perfect. Officers may ask drivers to perform several different tests during a traffic stop. In Tennessee, common field sobriety tests include the Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus (HGN) test, the walk-and-turn test, and the one-leg stand test. Each test is designed to assess a driver’s physical ability and mental state. The purpose of these tests is to provide the officer with evidence to support their belief that the driver is intoxicated. However, it is important to note that these tests are not foolproof. Many factors, such as a driver’s physical condition or the environment in which the tests are performed, can impact the results.The Importance of Field Sobriety Tests in Underage DUI Cases
For underage drivers, a DUI charge is especially serious. Tennessee has a zero-tolerance policy for drivers under the age of 21 who are caught with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.02% or higher. This is much lower than the legal limit for adults, which is 0.08%. Even a small amount of alcohol can result in an arrest for an underage DUI. In these cases, field sobriety tests can play a significant role in determining whether or not the driver is arrested or convicted.
The Different Types of Field Sobriety Tests in Tennessee
There are several types of field sobriety tests used by officers in Tennessee. Each test is designed to measure different aspects of a driver’s abilities. While these tests can be helpful in determining impairment, they are not always accurate. Here is a closer look at some of the most common field sobriety tests used in Tennessee underage DUI cases.
Garth Best was extremely helpful in my case. He explored and explained everything to me clearly and never stopped checking out every option. I am absolutely grateful I chose him as my attorney. Best and Brock are a great choice for representation. Thanks again.
- Jeremy Forgey
Matt Brock did an outstanding job with my case. Very thorough and knowledgeable attorney, highly recommended. Its very obvious through my interactions with him that he has the experience and knowledge to win in court. I will not go anywhere else. Great job, much appreciated.
- Chris Griffin
Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus (HGN) Test
The HGN test is a common field sobriety test used by officers to detect signs of intoxication. During this test, the officer will ask the driver to follow a stimulus, such as a pen or flashlight, with their eyes. The officer is looking for specific signs that indicate intoxication, such as jerky eye movements or an inability to follow the stimulus smoothly. While the HGN test can be useful, it is not always conclusive, as there are several factors that can cause similar eye movements.Walk-and-Turn Test
The walk-and-turn test is a physical test that requires the driver to walk a straight line, turn around, and walk back. The officer is looking for signs of poor balance, coordination, or difficulty following instructions. While this test is often used in DUI cases, it can be challenging for individuals with certain physical conditions, injuries, or even those who are nervous or anxious during the test.One-Leg Stand Test
In this test, the officer asks the driver to stand on one leg for a set period of time while keeping the other leg raised. The officer is watching for signs of instability or difficulty maintaining balance. Again, this test can be impacted by several factors unrelated to intoxication, such as anxiety or medical conditions, which makes it less reliable in certain situations.Related Videos
Penalties for a DUI Conviction
Cost of a DUI Lawyer