The Science (or Lack Thereof) Behind Field Sobriety Tests

If you've ever watched a police procedural on TV, you've likely seen the iconic scene: an officer shining a flashlight into a driver's eyes, asking them to walk a straight line or recite the alphabet backward. These are known as field sobriety tests, and they're a common tool used by law enforcement to assess a driver's level of intoxication. But how reliable are these tests, really?

At LaCross & Murphy, our Port Orchard, Washington criminal defense lawyers have decades of experience defending people from faulty DUI charges. Lead attorney David LaCross is certified in standardized field sobriety tests and has been trained in the Advanced Detection of DUI, and the processes that crime labs use to test blood. Like the officers who patrol the streets, David knows how these tests work – and he knows just how unreliable they can be.

Here’s what to know about field sobriety tests and DUI charges.

What are Field Sobriety Tests?

Field sobriety tests are a series of standardized tests used in Washington and throughout the U.S. that are designed to evaluate a person's balance, coordination, and cognitive abilities. The three most common tests are:

• Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus (HGN): This test involves following a penlight with your eyes to observe involuntary jerking.
• Walk-and-Turn (WAT): This test requires you to walk heel-to-toe in a straight line, then turn and walk back.
• One-Leg Stand (OLS): This test involves standing on one leg while counting out loud.

The Flawed Science

While these tests are widely used, their scientific validity is far from clear-cut. Here's why:

• Subjectivity: The interpretation of field sobriety test results is often subjective, varying between officers and even within the same officer on different occasions.
• Environmental Factors: Factors like weather conditions, uneven surfaces, or even the type of shoes a person is wearing can affect test performance.
• Individual Differences: People's physical abilities, age, and medical conditions can significantly impact their ability to perform these tests accurately, even when sober.
• Lack of Scientific Rigor: The research supporting the reliability of field sobriety tests has been criticized for its methodological flaws and limited sample sizes.

What to Do If You've Been Charged with a DUI

If you've been arrested and charged with a DUI, the most important thing you can do is to exercise your right to remain silent and contact an attorney immediately.

Do not answer any questions or agree to any tests beyond what is legally required in your state.

An experienced DUI defense attorney will be able to investigate the circumstances of your arrest, including the administration of the field sobriety tests, and challenge any evidence that may be inaccurate or unreliable.

What Happens if I’m Convicted of a DUI Charge?

In DUI cases, these test results can be a key piece of evidence used by prosecutors. However, the questionable reliability of these tests raises serious concerns about their impact on the fairness and accuracy of DUI convictions.

Our attorneys at LaCross & Murphy know that our clients are concerned about the consequences that come with a DUI charge. In addition to license suspension and jail time, other collateral effects of these convictions can include losing a job that requires security clearance or a professional license, including being a doctor, counselor, or teacher. This is why it’s vital to contact an experienced DUI defense attorney as soon as possible.

Contact LaCross & Murphy Washington DUI Defense Lawyers Today

If you've been charged with a DUI based on field sobriety test results, it's crucial to consult with an experienced criminal defense attorney. At LaCross & Murphy, we have a deep understanding of the science (or lack thereof) behind these tests. We can challenge the validity of these tests in court and fight to protect your rights.

Field sobriety tests are not foolproof. Don't let faulty science dictate the outcome of your case. Contact LaCross & Murphy today for a confidential consultation.

Disclaimer: This blog post is intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. If you are facing DUI charges, please consult with a qualified attorney.

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About LaCross & Murphy: At LaCross & Murphy, we have a reputation for fighting the good fight. We have decades of experience fighting to protect our clients’ freedom, and we work constantly to become the best criminal defense trial lawyers we can be. Founding Attorney David LaCross is also a member of the National College for DUI Defense and certified in standardized field sobriety tests. He has also been trained in the Advanced Detection of DUI, and the processes that crime labs use to test blood.