Field Sobriety Tests & DUI Charges

Field sobriety tests are conducted by law enforcement in the event that they pull a driver over for suspected DUI (driving under the influence, or drunk driving) in Long Beach. Even when a driver has failed a field sobriety test or tests, and is arrested for DUI, a Long Beach DUI lawyer with the necessary knowledge and experience may be able to contest the results and successfully help the driver avoid a conviction and the penalties along with it.

Field Sobriety Tests

After a driver has pulled a driver over for suspected DUI in Long Beach, he/she will approach the vehicle and observe any outward signs of intoxication on the part of the driver (bloodshot eyes, the smell of alcohol, etc.). If the officer still has reason to believe the driver may be driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs, he/she may ask the driver to come out of the car and perform several field sobriety tests to determine whether the driver may be impaired.

A field sobriety test cannot indicate, with 100% accuracy, whether a driver is under the influence of alcohol/drugs. They may indicate severe intoxication, but the problem is that even a sober individual, under certain circumstances, may be unable to perform a field sobriety test and pass. Illness, tiredness or a physical condition may skew the results of a field sobriety test.

It is up to your Long Beach DUI defense lawyer to work to defend your case, even in light of failed field sobriety testing.