Field sobriety tests are administered by police officers to make an on-the-spot determination of whether or not a motorist is under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Law enforcement officials ask drivers to perform field sobriety tests during a vehicle stop. The tests are performed out of the vehicle and by the side of the road.
Am I Required to Take a Field Sobriety Test in Rhode Island?
It is imperative to understand that you do not have to submit to a field sobriety test. Although law enforcement can still arrest a suspected drunk driver without conducting a field sobriety test, refusing to perform the test cannot be used against you in court.
The following are the main three field sobriety tests:
- One-leg stand
- Horizontal gaze nystagmus
- Walk and turn
These tests are highly subjective since the results are based solely on the officer’s individual observations of “clues” which indicate intoxication. There are a variety of environmental (tests performed on slopes and hills) and physiological (a suspect has a weak leg or an eye condition) factors that can cause someone to fail any of these tests which are unrelated to alcohol or drug intoxication. The results of the tests are created to give officers probable cause to arrest a motorist for drunk driving.
How Attorney Thomasian Can Help
RI DUI lawyer Tom Thomasian understands what it takes to get the results suppressed. Attorney Thomasian has an extensive knowledge of Rhode Island driving laws and will help you navigate through the complexities of the legal system. Do not hesitate to let him protect your rights, reputation, and future today.
Contact Attorney Thomasian and request a free consultation.