Field Sobriety Tests
If a police officer suspects that you are driving under the influence of alcohol, then he or she may pull you over and ask you to complete a series of field sobriety tests. These examinations are used to determine whether or not person has a blood alcohol content (BAC) level above the legal limit of 0.08%. If you fail a series of field sobriety tests, then you may be taken into police custody and asked to submit to more accurate, chemical testing.
RI DUI defense lawyer James Powderly has dedicated his practice to helping defend Rhode Island residents who are facing drunk driving charges. Contact him today at 401-662-9006 to find out more about how he can protect you.
Standardized Field Sobriety Tests
The National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration has developed three standardized field sobriety tests that officers are asked to perform on suspected drunk drivers. These examinations have been researched and created for accuracy. Studies have shown that 91% of drivers who fail a combination of these sobriety tests have BAC levels above the legal limit.
The standardized field sobriety tests are the following:
- Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus (HGN)
- Walk-and-Turn (WAT)
- One-Leg Stand (OLS)
In addition to these three tests, officers may choose to also administer a selection of non-standard field sobriety tests.
Non-Standard Field Sobriety Tests
There are a number of non-standard field sobriety tests that may also be given to you if you have been pulled over for drunk driving. Some of the more common techniques used include the following:
- Putting one’s feet together and tilting the head backwards
- Closing one’s eyes and touching a finger to the nose
- Counting backwards
- Rhomberg stationary balance test
- Reciting the alphabet
If you fail a field sobriety test, you may face the devastating consequences of a DUI charge. Call Rhode Island DUI defense lawyer James Powderly today at 401-662-9006 to get the protection you need.
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If you have been charged with a DUI offense, then Rhode Island DUI defense lawyer James Powderly can help you protect your driving freedom in court. Contact him today at 401-662-9006 to begin forming your defense today.
