Standardized Field Sobriety Training: My Experience Learning the Dark Arts.

In December, I decided to take myself out of my comfort zone. I signed up for a three day course on DUI Detection & Standardized Field Sobriety Testing. This is the same DUI/OVI course that every police officer is required to take in the academy.

I’ll be honest, I didn’t realized how hard these tests are to both administer and to pass. I used to think these tests were dispositive of guilt. Spoiler alert: they’re not.

The Standardized Field Sobriety Tests (SFSTs) are divided attention tests meaning they are meant to test your ability to multitask. There are traditionally three tests: the Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus (HGN); The Walk-and-Turn (WAT); and the One Legged Stand (OLS). From the outside looking in, it’s easy to think ‘well if they can’t pass, they’re drunk.’ But these tests are highly technical and designed for you to fail.

The Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus Test involves following an object (like a pen) to determine if the subject is exhibiting a particular kind of nystagmus (eye movement).

In the Walk-and-Turn Test, the subject is asked to walk heel-to-toe in a straight line. The test is designed to measure the subjects ability to follow directions, and divide their attention between a physical and mental task.

The One-Leg-Stand Test is just what it sounds like. I won’t insult anyone’s intelligence by explaining further.

Because the tests are based on scientific research, Officers have a list of things they absolutely must do and say during a DUI/OVI stop. If they don’t, the tests are no longer based in science, they’re just roadside acrobatics. Luckily, the list of things an officer can mess up is long enough that they’re bound to make some mistakes.

If you’ve had a recent DUI/OVI and want to know what law enforcement messed up on your case, call or text me for a free case evaluation! My number is (740) 739-7451.