There are a variety of field sobriety tests that law enforcement can administer in a DUI stopover to determine whether there is probable cause to arrest the individual for drunk driving. However, not all of these tests are reliable. A Michigan DUI lawyer with experience may be able to successfully defend the accuracy of the majority of these field sobriety tests and have the DUI case dismissed or the charges reduced.
Three Standard Tests Used By Law Enforcement
Studies funded by the Department of Transportation have concluded that there are three major field sobriety tests that yield the most reliable and effective results in detecting whether an individual is drunk and should be arrested on DUI charges. These three “standardized” tests include:
- Nystagmus
- One-leg-stand
- Walk-and-turn
Studies show that the other field sobriety tests are simply too unreliable and can easily be disputed by a Michigan DUI lawyer to prevent or overturn a DUI conviction.
Use of the “Other” Field Sobriety Tests
Despite the overwhelming evidence against the use of the “other” field sobriety tests (that is, any other test than the three standardized tests mentioned above), some law enforcement agencies still continue to use whatever tests they prefer. The majority of the “other” field sobriety tests, such as the ability to recite the alphabet or the ability to write out statements in front of the officer, are very unreliable because they do not accurately reflect alcohol impairment and can be improperly administered. Furthermore, these tests are largely unfamiliar to most individuals performing them and are not in any way standardized, making them more difficult to perform.
If the arresting officer used one of these non-standardized tests to determine whether you were impaired and ultimately arrested you for drunk driving, your Michigan DUI lawyer will most likely be able to prove its lack of accuracy and have the evidence dismissed.
But regardless of what test is used, whether these “other” tests or the three “standardized” field sobriety tests, a good Michigan DUI lawyer should look at the facts surrounding the administration of the test to determine whether it accurately reflected whether in fact you were properly arrested for a DUI.
Contact Us
For more information about the accuracy of the field sobriety test administered in your DUI arrest, contact the Law Offices of Christopher Trainor & Associates at 800-961-8477 to schedule a complimentary consultation with an experienced Michigan DUI lawyer.