How to take a field sobriety test in Detroit—Better yet just don’t take the test
Nobody wants to get a DUI, especially a Detroit DUI. The penalties for drunk drivers are becoming much stricter and the tests are still just as tough as ever. We've provided some helpful Detroit DUI info on how to take a field sobriety test in Detroit so you can be prepared if you happen to find yourself in the unfortunate position of being pulled over for suspicion of a DUI.
The field sobriety tests include:
Reciting With this test, the officer is usually looking for slurred speech and not performing the exercise as instructed. You may be asked to recite any number of things such as the months, the alphabet or counting. Make sure you are paying attention to what the officer is asking. They may ask you to start with a specific month or have you say the alphabet backwards or even count backwards. Remember to speak clearly and loudly.
Finger-to-Nose You will be told to stand with your heels together and with your arms at your sides. With your eyes closed and your head tilted backwards, you will touch each of your index fingers to the tip of your nose when the Detroit officer instructs you to do so. Make sure you concentrate as the officer is checking as to whether you sway, whether you can actually touch the tip of your nose with your finger and whether you can follow instructions.
Heel-to-Toe For this test, you will walk heal to toe for a certain number of steps which will be designated by the officer. With your arms at your sides, you will wait until you are told to begin. Once you are given the go ahead, you will count the number of steps given by the officer out loud as you take your steps. You will likely have to also turn around, by pivoting on one foot, and repeat the exercise. The officer will be watching for wobbling, stumbling, amount extremities are used for balance and not listening to instructions.
The Pen Test The officer will ask you to look into his pen light and follow the light without turning your head to the left and to the right. The officer will look to see if you have nystagmus which is the bouncing of the eyes when the eye looks to the side.
The One Leg Stand You will be asked to stand with your feet shoulder width apart and raise one foot approximately six inches off the ground with your toes forward (not down). You will then have to say the alphabet or count to a certain number as instructed by the officer. Don't raise your foot any higher than you have to and slightly lean the opposite way of whichever foot you picked up. This will help you with your balance. The officer is checking to see if you sway, use your arms for balance, hop or put your foot down.
Hopefully, this Detroit DUI info has been helpful and you have seen how difficult these tests can be even if you are completely sober. Therefore, a better bet is to simply refuse to do a field sobriety test since they are voluntary. The next important step is to take charge of your situation and contact an experienced Detroit DUI lawyer as quickly as possible. Call now!