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Being pulled over and arrested for a DUI charge can be a stressful and confusing experience. One of the most nerve-wracking aspects is having to take part in field sobriety tests. If you’re an individual who has been charged with a DUI, or if you want to know more about what to expect in the event that you are pulled over, keep reading this blog for an overview of the different types of field sobriety tests that you may encounter in Florida.
Walk-and-Turn Test
When an officer suspects that someone has been drinking and driving, they may ask them to perform a walk-and-turn test. This test requires the suspect to stand heel-to-toe in a straight line and follow a series of instructions given by the officer. The individual must walk nine steps forward, touching heel to toe each time, turn around on one foot, and then walk back nine steps in order to complete the test. The officer will be analyzing several factors such as balance, coordination, following instructions, and listening carefully.
One Leg Stand Test
Another common field sobriety test is known as the one leg stand test. In this type of test, the driver will be asked to lift their foot off the ground while counting out loud until instructed otherwise by an officer or until they reach 30 seconds. This test not only assesses physical abilities such as balance, coordination, and strength but also cognitive abilities such as memory recall and concentration skills.
HGN Test
The horizontal gaze nystagmus (HGN) test is another tool used by law enforcement officers during traffic stops when there is suspicion of alcohol impairment. In this type of test, officers observe how quickly an individual’s eyes move from side to side when they look at objects such as a pen or flashlight pointed at them from different angles. A slow response rate can indicate impairment due to alcohol consumption or drug use because it is difficult for individuals under the influence to focus their vision without any jerking eye movements taking place.
Challenging Results in Orlando, FL
All in all, it is important for drivers in Florida to understand the potential field sobriety tests they may encounter. The three common tests are the walk-and-turn, one-leg stand, and the horizontal gaze nystagmus. If one or more of these tests is failed, it serves as a strong indicator of intoxication, contributing evidence against you in a DUI charge. The team at Ali & Blankner can help you tackle these charges and challenge your test results– contact us today!