Georgia prohibits driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs or intoxicating substances. If an officer suspects that you are drunk, they may ask you to take part in a series of field sobriety tests. While these tests can support an officer’s observations, they are not completely foolproof as roadside conditions can undermine their accuracy and fairness.
Road and surface conditions
Officers use field sobriety tests to establish probable cause as they require balance and coordination. However, if the ground is not stable, it may affect how well you do during the tests. For example, if you are standing on a slope or if the officer conducts the test on gravel, it becomes significantly easier to slip and fall.
Roadside distractions
When conducting field sobriety tests, officers often pull you over on the roadside. You may face distractions here as there are many passersby, loud traffic, construction, flashing lights or other phenomena that may affect your performance. Late-night fatigue can also affect your ability to think, react or balance yourself – especially after a long shift.
Poor communication, human error and other conditions
Even under ideal conditions, the way an officer administers a field sobriety test has the potential to affect how well you do. Unclear instructions, poor demonstrations or inadequate communication can lead to mistakes. Similarly, if a police officer does not observe you performing the test well, they may misinterpret your results or draw incorrect conclusions.
Having injuries or disabilities may also affect your performance in field sobriety tests. Broken bones, vertigo or muscle injuries can make it more difficult to perform strenuous physical activities, especially if they require balance or coordination.
What should you do if an officer stops you for a field sobriety test?
Field sobriety tests can look simple, but they are not always reliable as external factors can affect your results. Uneven ground roadside distractions and unclear instructions can affect your balance, focus and coordination.
Though officers in Georgia often use these tests to establish DUI cases, the details about the environment can matter as much as your actual performance. If an officer stops you, pay attention to the surface, distractions, conditions you may have and any other factors at play before documenting what you can. By taking note of what might affect your results, you can defend yourself in court if you face DUI charges.
