Being pulled over for a DUI stop can be an anxiety-inducing experience, whether you’re driving home from a happy hour hangout with friends or taking a night drive to take your mind off things. The thought that a police officer suspects that you might be driving while impaired can be nerve-wracking and frightening, whether it’s your first time being pulled over or it’s happened before.
At a DUI stop, the most common tools that law enforcement officials use to confirm or dismiss their suspicions are Field Sobriety Tests (FST). These tests are designed to help law enforcement evaluate whether a driver is under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
A key question you may face after being arrested for DUI is: Did you really fail a field sobriety test, or were other factors at play?
Medical conditions
Did you know that certain medical conditions can mimic signs of intoxication during field sobriety tests? You may have exhibited poor performance on balance-based tests like the Walk and Turn (WAT) and One-Leg Stand (OLS) due to:
- Inner ear balance problems
- Neurological conditions
- Severe anxiety
Furthermore, if you have nystagmus, a medical condition where the eyes move uncontrollably, you may fail the Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus (HGN) test, and law enforcement officials may falsely assume impairment.
Environmental conditions
Suppose the DUI stop is located on the side of the road or near a construction zone, where conditions may be far from ideal; the law enforcement officials may conduct the FSTs without considering:
- Uneven surfaces
- Poor lighting
- Inclement weather
- Nearby distractions
Unfortunately, all these factors can affect your performance and lead to an unwarranted DUI arrest. For instance, suppose you were standing on a slanted or slippery road while trying to balance on one leg; you could stumble or sway, even if you are sober.
Fatigue or nervousness
If you’re like most motorists, being stopped by the police is a nerve-wracking experience for you. Did you know that your anxiety and nervousness can interfere with your ability to concentrate or follow instructions precisely? Moreover, fatigue, especially after a long day or late at night, can significantly impact your physical coordination and mental sharpness, leading to mistakes during the FSTs.
Failing a FST during a DUI stop doesn’t automatically mean you are guilty of driving under the influence. Many factors, from medical conditions to environmental issues, can influence your performance. The subjective nature of these tests means that they are far from conclusive, and with the appropriate legal guidance, you can potentially challenge their results in court.