Taking a Field Sobriety Test in Atlanta
Did you know that by taking a field sobriety test you may just be making your situation worse?
There are thousands of people who get an Atlanta DWI every year. Nevertheless, it does not mean that it is not a serious crime. The penalties for drunk drivers are harsh and you will need the help of Atlanta DUI lawyers to assist you with a proper defense. So, the best decision you can make is to call a cab if you have had too much to drink. If you do make the unfortunate decision to drink and drive, you should be prepared to be pulled over and ready for any tests the officer will request you to perform.
Some of the field sobriety tests they may ask you to complete include:
- Walk and Turn- You will be expected to walk a certain number of steps in heal to toe. Your arms will remain at your side and the officer will tell you when to begin. You will then count the number of steps, provided to you by the officer, out loud with each step. Once you have completed the number of steps, you will most likely have to turn around, by pivoting on one foot, and repeat the steps again. This exercise is completed so the police officer can observe if you are stumbling or wobbling, how much you are using your extremities for balance and if you can listen and follow instructions.
- HGN test- With the Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus test, law enforcement is looking to see if your eyes bounce when you look to the side. The officer will have you look into their pen light and, without turning your head, have you follow the light to the right and left.
- One Leg Stand- The police officer will have you stand with your feet shoulder width apart. You will then be expected to raise one foot roughly 6 inches off the ground. (Your toes must point forward rather than downward.) Next, you will be required to count or to recite the alphabet as instructed by the officer. The officer is trying to see if you are using your arms for balance or if you have to put your foot down.
As you can probably tell, field sobriety tests are not easy and many sober people have trouble passing them. The good news is that they are voluntary which means if you are pulled over for an Atlanta DWI and asked to complete a field sobriety test, you can and should politely refuse. However, just because you do not take the test, does not mean you will not be arrested for a DUI. The next step you will want to take is to speak with Atlanta DUI lawyers who know how to handle cases such as yours. Call now so they can help you fight for your rights!
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