DUI and Field Sobriety Tests

Police officers use over a dozen different types of field sobriety tests, also known as FSTs, in order to determine if a person is driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The most common tests are standing on one leg, walking in a straight line then turning and walking in the opposite direction, following a pen or finger with one's eyes, and the Rhomberg test, which is touching your finger to your nose or your fingers to your thumb.

These tests have lost some weight in court because they are largely subjective and it is up to the officer to determine according to his or her own standards whether a person passes the tests. This means that many sober people can fail field sobriety tests and be wrongfully charged with a DUI.

Studies have found that the only three fields of a test that are effective in determining whether a person is driving under the influence are the one leg stand, the walk and turn test, and the nystagmus test, which is following a pen or finger with one's eyes. Law enforcement around the country have been advised to give a standardized battery of these three tests only.

Do you have questions about the results of your FSTs and how they will impact the outcome of your case? Contact the Law Offices of Virginia L. Landry now to engage the help and representation of an Orange County DUI lawyer.