Common Field Sobriety Tests
Field sobriety tests are often employed by law enforcement agencies as a cheap and reasonably effective way of establishing if a motorist is intoxicated. Usually, these tests are used to determine a suspect’s mental acuity and motor skills. However, these tests are highly subjective and are frequently inaccurate, especially for overweight, elderly, or sick individuals.
If you or someone you love has been charged with drunk driving as the result of a failed sobriety test, the Arizona DUI lawyers of Thompson & Volquardsen, P.C. may be able to help. To discuss your case and learn more about what we may be able to do for you, please contact us today by calling 602-510-9999.
Field Tests
There are several typical field sobriety tests employed by police officers. Some of the most common ones include:
- Balancing tests, such as the straight-line walk and standing on one leg
- The finger-to-nose test, which involves tipping the head back, extending the arms, and touching the nose
- Reciting the alphabet. While many people assume that officers request the recitation of the alphabet backwards, most sober people cannot do this.
- Vision tests, such as the horizontal gaze nystagmus test
It is important to remember that these tests are highly subjective, and failing a field sobriety test does not necessarily indicate illegal intoxication.
Contact Us
If you have been charged with drunk driving, the Arizona DUI attorneys of Thompson & Volquardsen, P.C. may be able to help you. Contact us today by calling 602-510-9999.







