In Michigan, Field Sobriety Tests (FSTs) are frequently used by law enforcement officers during traffic stops to assess whether a driver is impaired by alcohol or drugs. These tests, developed and standardized by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), are intended to provide officers with probable cause to make a DUI arrest. However, they are not infallible and are subject to strict guidelines that must be followed for the results to hold weight in court.
This guide will explore the three standardized field sobriety tests, their administration, how they are scored, and how their performance applies to drunk driving cases in Michigan. The Purpose of Field Sobriety Tests in Michigan Field sobriety tests aim to evaluate a driver’s:
In Michigan, these tests play a critical role in DUI investigations. However, they must be administered correctly to be considered reliable evidence. The Three Standardized Field Sobriety Tests The NHTSA has approved three standardized FSTs. Each has specific instructions that officers must follow and observable clues they must document. If these protocols are not followed, the results can be challenged in court. 1. Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus (HGN) Test Overview: The HGN test evaluates involuntary jerking of the eye, which becomes more pronounced when someone is impaired by alcohol. How It’s Administered:
Clues of Impairment:
Scoring: Each eye is evaluated separately, and each clue counts as one point, for a total of six possible clues. If four or more clues are present, the driver is likely impaired according to NHTSA standards. Challenges to This Test:
2. Walk-and-Turn (WAT) Test Overview: This test evaluates a driver’s ability to follow instructions and maintain balance while walking in a straight line. How It’s Administered:
Clues of Impairment:
Scoring: Two or more clues indicate impairment according to NHTSA standards. Challenges to This Test:
3. One-Leg Stand (OLS) Test Overview: This test assesses balance, coordination, and concentration by requiring the driver to stand on one leg while performing a task. How It’s Administered:
Clues of Impairment:
Scoring: Two or more clues indicate impairment. Challenges to This Test:
How Field Sobriety Tests Must Be Performed in Michigan In Michigan, officers must adhere to strict guidelines when administering FSTs:
Failure to follow these protocols can weaken the reliability of the test results and provide grounds for legal challenges. How to Interpret Field Sobriety Test Results While these tests are designed to detect impairment, they are not definitive evidence of drunk driving. Performance on these tests can be influenced by:
In Michigan drunk driving cases, an experienced attorney can scrutinize how these tests were conducted and challenge their validity if proper procedures were not followed. Defending Against Field Sobriety Test Results in Michigan DUI Cases An attorney experienced in Michigan DUI law can:
Conclusion Field sobriety tests are a critical tool in Michigan drunk driving cases, but they are far from perfect. Understanding how these tests work, how they should be performed, and their potential shortcomings can be vital for anyone facing DUI charges. If you’ve been charged with a DUI in Michigan, it’s crucial to work with an experienced attorney who can evaluate the validity of the field sobriety tests in your case and build a strong defense. For comprehensive guidance, visit www.michiganduiplaybook.com. Comments are closed.
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