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3 reasons field sobriety tests might not be accurate

Law enforcement officers frequently use field sobriety tests to determine whether a driver is driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

However, these tests may not always provide reliable results due to various reasons. This article will explore some of the reasons why field sobriety tests may not produce accurate results.

1. Inherent inaccuracy of sobriety tests

Sobriety tests measure a person’s ability to perform specific physical and cognitive tasks. Although these tests serve as indicators of impairment, they are not foolproof. Several factors can affect a person’s performance on these tests, such as fatigue, nervousness and physical or mental disabilities.

2. Environmental factors

Environmental factors can also affect the accuracy of field sobriety tests. For instance, if the test takes place in a noisy or distracting environment, it may be challenging for the driver to concentrate and perform the tasks accurately. Similarly, testing a driver on an uneven or slippery surface, such as gravel or ice, may compromise their ability to perform the tasks accurately.

3. Medical conditions and prescription drugs

Certain medical conditions and prescription drugs can also affect a person’s performance on sobriety tests. For example, a balance disorder or recent injury may make it difficult for a person to perform the one-leg stand test accurately. Likewise, some prescription drugs can cause drowsiness or impair cognitive function, leading to false positive results on the tests.

Field sobriety tests can be useful tools for law enforcement officers to determine whether a driver is under the influence of alcohol or drugs. However, several factors can lead to inaccurate results, and it is helpful to understand them so you can build a strong defense.