Field sobriety tests are investigative tools used by officers to determine whether or not to proceed with an arrest. In California, field sobriety tests are voluntary, and can include an in the field breath test or Preliminary Alcohol Screening tests (also known as a PAS or breathalyzer). There are three Standardized Field Sobriety Tests, Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus, Walk-and-Turn, and the One-Leg-Stand tests. In addition to the three standardized tests many officers and agencies such as the California Highway Patrol use non-standardized tests.
The Preliminary Alcohol Screening is the most straightforward field sobriety test. The officer provides you with an instrument that you blow into. The instrument analyzes your breath, and provides the officer with a number.
The Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus, or HGN, tests the involuntary jerking of the eye that occurs in many people when they drink. This condition usually occurs when the eyes are rotated at high peripheral angles. However, when a person has been drinking, the eye jerking is amplified and can occur at lesser angles. Additionally, a person’s eyes will often be unable to evenly track a moving object. Officers most often conduct the HGN test by having you follow a pen or flashlight with your eyes, and observing your eye movements.
The Walk-and-Turn test requires you to listen and follow instructions while simultaneously performing physical movements. Most people have little difficulty performing this test, but those who have been drinking are more likely to have trouble with their balance, are less precise in their movements, and may not accurately follow the officers instructions.
During the One-Leg-Stand test, the officer will ask you to raise one foot off the ground and count out loud until told to stop. The test lasts for 30 seconds. A person who has been drinking will often have trouble balancing and standing still and maintaining balance. Like the HGN and Walk-and-Turn tests, the officer conducts the test by observing your movements.
Mistakes are often made during the administration of field sobriety tests; so it is in your best interest to contact Mark Rosenfeld to determine if Contact his office today at (310) 424-3145 to schedule a consultation and learn how he can help you.
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