Do you know how the police would be able to tell if you are drunk during a traffic stop? The police could ask you to take a breath test that would indicate how much alcohol is in your body. However, the police may ask you to do a standardized field sobriety test.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration developed standardized field sobriety tests to determine if a driver is drunk. These tests are physical activities that allow police officers to judge a driver’s condition. Here is what you may be expected to do during a traffic stop:
Horizontal gaze nystagmus test
During a horizontal gaze nystagmus test, the driver may hold an object in front of your face. They will move the object from the left to the right of your face. You are expected to keep your eyes on the object without moving your head. The police may suspect that you are drunk depending on the jerkiness of your eyes.
Walk-and-turn test
You may be asked to stand on a straight line during a walk-and-turn test. The police officer will have you walk on the line for several paces. Then, they will ask you to turn around and walk back to the start. If you sway, walk off the line or fall over, the police may believe you are drunk.
One-legged stand test
During a one-legged stand test, the police may ask you to stand upright and lift one leg slightly off the ground. You must hold your leg up for several seconds before putting it back down. Falling over or failing to follow instructions could be taken as a sign of inebriation.
Knowing your legal rights during a traffic stop or after an arrest could protect you from serious consequences.