How Sobriety Tests Really Work | Deputy & Mizell, L.L.C.

DWIs can stick with you for a LONG time and even affect your ability to get the job you want. You should never choose to drive drunk no matter what the circumstances may be, always designate a sober driver. Whether that means calling a cab or asking a friend, make sure you have a sober ride. Every year thousands of tourists come to the Lake of the Ozarks and enjoy the waterfront bars. Do not make the mistake of thinking this is a smaller area than what you are used to and you won’t get pulled over – think again. Our DWI lawyers at the Lake of the Ozarks are here to explain how sobriety tests really work. If you have been pulled over for a DWI, do not make the mistake of thinking there is no defense for driving while intoxicated because nothing could be further from the truth. You should see an experienced DWI attorney at the Lake of the Ozarks as soon as possible to learn what can be challenged in your case. Call Deputy and Mizell today at 573-346-9990 for your free consultation today.

How Does a Sobriety Test Really Work?

Police officers have different ways of knowing whether or not you have been driving while intoxicated, one of which are sobriety tests. Let’s take a look at a few of the actions they may have you take if you are pulled over for suspected drinking while driving.

The HGN Test

This can be the most reliable field sobriety tests an officer has at his disposal.

The officer will ask the driver to stand on the side of the road and lock his gaze on the officer’s finger of a pen that is held directly in front of the driver’s nose.
The driver is then directed to follow the finger or pen with his gaze while the officer slowly moves the object to the right and to the left in a specific pattern.
The officer will watch the driver’s eyes closely throughout the process.

If the driver is intoxicated, his eyes will not be able to follow a smooth trajectory – they will likely twitch, jerk, or tremble as they slide from side to side.

The Walk and Turn Test

The officer will present the driver with specific instructions to walk heel-to-toe in a straight line for a total of nine steps.

While he walks, he is to keep his arms and hands held close to his sides and count his steps out loud.
Once he completes the nine steps, he is to use small steps to turn 180 degrees to the left, and then walk nine steps back to the original starting point in the same fashion.

The officer will be watching for signs of intoxication such as failing to walk in a straight line, waving his arms for balance, turning in the wrong direction, or otherwise failing to follow the directions.

The One Leg Stand Test

The officer instructs the driver to stand up straight with his heels together, feet pointed at a 45-degree angle.
The driver is then told to raise one foot approximately six inches off of the ground, keeping his foot level and toe pointed outward, and keep his eyes on his raised foot while counting out loud until instructed to stop.
The officer will be watching for the driver to slur his speech, lose count, struggle to maintain balance, or otherwise fail to perform the exercise correctly.

We know this is a lot to process. The bottom line here is if you ever find yourself in a situation where you need an experienced DWI lawyer in Camden County, contact Deputy and Mizell. When you hire our firm, we closely examine every aspect of the case. We build the strongest possible defense in an effort to obtain the most favorable outcome on your behalf. Call 573-346-9990 for your free consultation.