Field Sobriety Testing For DUI In Seminole
Even one or two drinks could result in DUI charges in Seminole. If you are pulled over under suspicion of driving under the influence, police will likely request that you perform one of three standard field sobriety tests. The following details what to expect from each.
What Are The Three Standard Field Sobriety Tests?
Police have the authority to make traffic stops in Seminole if you commit a moving violation, engage in reckless driving behavior, or if they have reason to suspect you were involved in a crime. Once pulled over, they may ask you to submit to field sobriety testing if they believe you are driving under the influence.
The American Automobile Association (AAA) advises that there are three standardized field sobriety tests that all law enforcement agencies use, whether you are pulled over in Florida or in other states across the country:
- The horizontal gaze nystagmus (HGN) test.
In this test, the officer will slowly move a pen or small flashlight back and forth in front of your eyes and ask you to follow it with your gaze. It tests the horizontal gaze nystagmus, which is an involuntary jerking of the eyeball that occurs under normal circumstances when looking far to the side. If a person is under the influence of alcohol, they will have a hard time following the officers movements and the jerking is likely to occur earlier and will be far more exaggerated.
- The walk and turn test.
In this test, the officer will ask you to walk a straight line of nine steps, with one foot in front of the other touching toe to heel, and then turn and walk back in the same manner. In determining whether you are impaired, the officer will consider whether you are able to follow the exact instructions and maintain your balance throughout the test.
- The one-leg stand test.
As the name implies, the police officer will ask you to stand on one foot with the other raised approximately six inches off the ground. You will be instructed to count aloud for thirty seconds, starting at one thousand. Indicators of impairment the officer will look for are losing count, not maintaining balance, and putting your foot down during the test.
What Happens If I Refuse to Take a Field Sobriety Test?
If you are pulled over and asked to submit to a field sobriety test, you have the right to refuse. However, this will likely result in the officer requesting a breath or blood alcohol content (BAC) test.
Under the Florida Statutes, you automatically consent to BAC testing when you obtain your driver’s license. While refusal will result in an automatic driver’s license suspension, it also robs prosecutors of important evidence against you.
Let Us Help You Today
At The Reep Law Firm, you can count on us to build a strong legal defense against DUI charges, regardless of whether any DUI tests took place. To discuss your case, call or contact our Seminole BUI/DUI defense attorney online and request a consultation today.
