What Happens During a Field Sobriety Test?
Posted March 7th, 2014 by Anthony Carbone, PC.
Categories: Criminal Defense.
Police officers have long used standardized field sobriety tests to determine whether or not a driver is operating a vehicle while impaired by drugs or alcohol. But how reliable are these tests? If you’ve been pulled over and charged with driving under the influence, dedicated Newark DUI attorney Anthony Carbone can assess the evidence and build a strong case on your behalf.
Most people associate getting pulled over and tested for drunk driving with a roadside breathalyzer test. However, the most common field sobriety test was developed by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration in 1982.
This standardized field sobriety test consists of three tasks:
- Walking a straight line heel-to-toe without using the arms to assist with balance
- Standing on one leg for a set amount of time
- Visually following a moving object, such as a pen or finger, held close to your face
Regardless of the debate about the accuracy of field sobriety tests, there’s no question that the penalties for drunk driving in New Jersey are severe. If you’re convicted, you could face fines, the loss of your driver’s license, and even jail time.
Mr. Carbone has extensive experience representing DUI defendants in court. He will scrutinize each aspect of the prosecution’s case, including the validity of field sobriety tests and breathalyzer results.
To begin building your defense, please contact the Law Offices of Anthony Carbone or call 201-963-6000 today to schedule your free consultation with our Newark DUI attorney.
