Law enforcement officers in Texas commonly use field sobriety tests (FSTs) to determine if a driver is impaired. However, these tests aren’t necessarily reliable, and defendants can challenge them in a DWI case.
How accurate are field sobriety tests?
Field sobriety tests measure a driver’s coordination and balance. Officers often use tests like the Walk-and-Turn or the Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus test. While these tests aim to show impairment, the officer’s ability to administer them and the driver’s ability to perform them affect the results. Factors such as medical conditions, age, or nervousness can impact a driver’s performance and lead to inaccurate conclusions.
What factors can affect field sobriety test results?
Several conditions can influence the outcome of a field sobriety test, even when the driver is sober. Poor road conditions, bad weather, or the footwear a driver wears can all interfere with their ability to pass these tests. Medical issues like injuries, vision problems, or fatigue can also affect performance. A defense attorney can use these factors to challenge the test results in court, showing that external conditions influenced the driver’s ability to perform.
Can field sobriety tests be excluded from a case?
Yes, defendants can challenge the validity of field sobriety tests in a Texas DWI case. If an officer didn’t administer the tests properly or if external factors influenced the results, a defense attorney might argue the evidence isn’t reliable. If successful, this could weaken the prosecution’s case and potentially lead to reduced charges or even a case dismissal.
