California Field Sobriety Tests

If you’ve been driving for a while, at one time or another, you have probably watched as an officer pull someone over on suspicion of DUI. Most likely, the driver was asked to walk in a straight line, hop on one foot, clap his or her hands together while counting and other similar tasks.

As silly as they may seem, these types of exercises are actually standard procedures known as field sobriety tests. In California, field sobriety tests are administered to DUI suspects and, through a series of tests, used to determine your level of intoxication.



California field sobriety tests are used to evaluate a suspect’s balance and motor skills. Through a series of exercises such as standing on one leg, walking an imaginary line and even reciting the alphabet, the officer determines makes a subjective determination as to whether or not the driver is intoxicated.

Additionally, the officer may watch as the suspect follows an object, usually a pen or finger, with his or her eyes. This technique is called horizontal gaze nystagmus. As the officer moves the object, he or she watches to see if the driver can easily follow its movement. Because these evaluations rely entirely upon the officer’s judgment, field sobriety tests are highly unreliable.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recently released studies proving field sobriety tests ineffective. However, in the state of California, field sobriety tests are still regularly used to determine whether or not a suspect has been drinking and driving. Fortunately, an experienced DUI attorney can challenge the results of your field sobriety tests and help protect your rights.

If you were pulled over on suspicion of DUI and “failed” one or more field sobriety tests, you should speak with a lawyer immediately. When you’re looking for representation, make sure you select an attorney who knows the ins and outs of California DUI law and field sobriety tests.