Standard Field Sobriety Tests

Standard Field Sobriety Tests (SFST) are what are used to determine if your faculties are “materially and appreciably” impaired. The three (3) tests approved by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and are used by law enforcement are the One Leg Stand, the Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus (HGN), and the Walk and Turn (WAT).

These tests are not always administered correctly and under available ideal conditions in the field. Slight derivations in the directions due to inexperienced officers or slight variations from ideal testing locations (i.e.: testing on non-level surfaces) may have an effect on the evidentiary weight of the officer opinioned results, and potentially make the SFST’s invalid.

Field Sobriety Tests (FST) are just one (1) part of the equation in a DUI case. FST’s alone may not be what will potentially get you arrested and/or convicted for a DUI. There are many reasons why a non-drunk driver may not be able to successfully complete a test to the officer’s standard. The Phipps Law Firm has the knowledge and experience needed to negate an officer’s opinion.

For more information about the Standard Field Sobriety Tests for your case call the Phipps Law Firm 843-300-4444

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