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« Tests Before DUI/DWI Arrest: Sobriety

If you have been stopped by a cop under suspicion of  driving under influence , It is most likely that the cop would follow the standard procedure and will try to test you for signs of being under influence. First and most important is sobriety test. here are a few common methods for testing this and I have tried to list them all.

During the DUI suspicion stop, the officer usually will directly ask the suspect if he or she has been drinking.  A positive answer gives the officer the probable cause needed to conduct a field sobriety test. commonly sobriety test consist of following components:

  1. Counting
  2. Finger to Nose
  3. Reciting the Alphabet
  4. Standing on One Leg
  5. Walking a Line
  6. Walk-and-Turn

Counting

The suspect is asked to count forwards or backwards, usually by ones or threes. This is not a particularly accurate or reliable sobriety test.


Finger to Nose

The suspect stands, usually with the head tilted back and eyes closed, with arms stretched out to his sides. The suspect then attempts to touch the tip of his index finger to his nose, first with one arm and then the other.

Reciting the Alphabet

The suspect is asked to recite the alphabet, sometimes backwards.This test may not be appropriate for suspects for whom English is not the primary language.

Standing on One Leg

The suspect is asked to stand on a leg of his or her choosing with the other leg about 6 inches off the ground. The suspect then must count out loud for 30 seconds.During the test, the officer is looking for certain “clues” that point toward intoxication.

Walking a Line

A suspect is asked to walk a straight line. This should occur on a flat, even surface, at a safe distance from traffic. The officer looks for signs of impairment.

Walk-and-Turn

The officer asks the individual to stand on a leg of his or her choosing with the other leg about 6 inches off the ground. The suspect then must count out loud for 30 seconds. Individuals also are instructed to keep their arms at their sides to avoid using them for balance.

I hope this little article will help you get more prepared toward your next sobriety test.  Good Day!

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