Walk and Turn Test
When most people think of a field sobriety test, they picture the walk-and-turn test. This field sobriety test, along with the one-leg stand and horizontal gaze nystagmus test, is used to determine whether a driver is under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol. If a driver fails the test, he or she may be arrested and charged with DUI.The walk-and-turn test is known as a divided attention test. To pass the test, you must be able to follow instructions as well as perform a simple physical task.
Before administering the walk-and-turn test, the officer must first give accurate and clear instructions. He or she must also demonstrate the test for the driver. After explaining and demonstrating the test, the officer must ensure that the driver clearly understands the directions. If the driver doesn’t speak English, he or she may not understand how to perform the test correctly.
To perform the test, the driver must walk nine heel-to-toe steps, with his or her hands by the side, pivot, and walk nine heel-to-toe steps back. The driver may be asked to walk on the white line on the side of the road, or an imaginary line.
During the test, the officer is looking for several clues that the driver is under the influence. For example, using the arms to balance, not taking the correct number of steps, or not using the heel-to-toe method, may result in a failing score.
However, there are several factors other than intoxication that may cause a person to fail the walk-and-turn test. For example, a driver who is over the age of 65, more than 50 pounds overweight, or has a physical condition that affects balance may be unable to pass this test. Likewise for a person who is wearing awkward shoes or has limited sight in one eye. Finally, it is also important that the test is administered in a safe location (i.e., away from traffic), and on a flat, dry surface.
It is important to remember that field sobriety tests are not accepted by the scientific community as a way to accurately measure BAC (blood alcohol content). These tests are entirely subjective, and the scoring is up to the discretion of the police officer.
A DUI charge is extremely serious. If you have been charged with this crime after failing the walk-and-turn test, contact an experienced DUI defense lawyer today!
