Why Do Cops Do Field Sobriety Tests Instead of Breathalyzer: Insights from a Traffic Law Expert

Why Do Cops Do Field Sobriety Tests Instead of Breathalyzer

When it comes to determining if a driver is under the influence of alcohol, law enforcement officers have a few different methods at their disposal. One common technique is the field sobriety test, which involves a series of physical and cognitive tasks designed to assess impairment. But why do cops rely on these tests instead of simply using a breathalyzer?

The reason lies in the reliability and admissibility of evidence. While breathalyzers are effective tools for measuring blood alcohol content (BAC), they may not always hold up in court due to potential calibration issues or operator error. Field sobriety tests, on the other hand, provide officers with subjective observations that can be used as evidence during legal proceedings.

Additionally, field sobriety tests allow officers to assess an individual’s overall impairment beyond just alcohol consumption. These tests can help identify drug use or other factors that could impair one’s ability to drive safely. They provide more comprehensive information about an individual’s condition and aid in making informed decisions regarding arrest and further testing.

In conclusion, law enforcement officers utilize field sobriety tests alongside breathalyzers to establish probable cause for DUI arrests and gather additional evidence for court proceedings. While breathalyzer results provide objective BAC measurements, field sobriety tests offer valuable insights into an individual’s overall impairment level and can bolster the prosecution’s case in court.

The Purpose of Field Sobriety Tests

The Science Behind Field Sobriety Tests

When it comes to determining if a driver is under the influence of alcohol or drugs, law enforcement officers rely on a variety of methods. One such method is the field sobriety test (FST), which consists of a series of physical and cognitive exercises designed to assess a driver’s impairment level. But what exactly is the science behind these tests?

Field sobriety tests are based on the principle that alcohol and certain drugs can impair an individual’s motor skills, coordination, balance, and cognitive abilities. By subjecting drivers to specific tasks, such as walking in a straight line or standing on one leg, law enforcement officers can observe any signs of impairment.

One commonly used FST is the Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus (HGN) test. This test involves tracking an object with your eyes while an officer looks for involuntary jerking or bouncing movements known as nystagmus. Alcohol consumption can cause this reaction due to its effect on the central nervous system.

Factors Influencing the Use of Field Sobriety Tests

While field sobriety tests are widely used by law enforcement agencies, several factors can influence their use in different situations. One crucial factor is the officer’s training and experience in administering FSTs correctly.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has established standardized guidelines for conducting field sobriety tests. These guidelines outline proper procedures for each specific test and emphasize factors like maintaining a safe testing environment and ensuring accurate observations.

However, human error can still come into play during FST administration. Factors such as poor lighting conditions, uneven surfaces, or distractions from passing traffic may affect both the accuracy of results and an officer’s ability to interpret them correctly.

Comparing the Accuracy of Field Sobriety Tests

Critics argue that field sobriety tests are subjective and can yield unreliable results. While there is some truth to this claim, studies have shown that when administered correctly, FSTs can be a reasonably accurate indicator of impairment.

According to research conducted by the NHTSA, the three standard field sobriety tests—Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus, Walk-and-Turn, and One-Leg Stand—have an accuracy rate ranging from 65% to 77%. Although not foolproof, these tests provide officers with valuable information to establish probable cause for further testing or arrest.

It’s worth noting that field sobriety tests are often used in conjunction with other methods such as breathalyzer tests or blood alcohol content (BAC) measurements for a more comprehensive assessment of a driver’s impairment level.

In conclusion, field sobriety tests serve as an important tool in law enforcement’s efforts to detect and deter drunk driving. While they are not infallible, when conducted properly and in accordance with established guidelines, FSTs can provide valuable evidence of impairment on the road.