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Sacramento DUI Attorneys on How Officers Are Instructed to Give Field Sobriety Tests
If you face DUI charges, the arresting office likely gave you a field sobriety test. These tests are at times the foundation of the prosecution’s case, in spite of the fact that if administered improperly they can yield false results. Sacramento DUI attorneys will evaluate how the officer administered these tests to determine whether improper administration of them can be used in your defense.
The “walk and turn” or “walk the line” test is common. As Sacramento DUI lawyers know, the test has fairly complex instructions, even for suspects not under the influence. The officer must:
- Demonstrate the heel-to-toe stance by telling you to put your left foot on the line with your right foot in front (right heel touching the left toe).
- Instruct you to keep your arms straight against your sides at all times.
- Remind you to stay in position until the officer says “begin.”
- Make sure you answer “yes” when asked if you understand.
- Instruct you to maintain heel-to-toe contact for each step taken.
- Instruct you to turn after nine steps then take nine more steps in the opposite direction.
- Instruct you to watch your feet and count aloud at all times.
- Instruct you to continue walking until the test is completed.
Your Sacramento DUI attorneys will explain that proper administration of the test requires all of the above.
Sacramento DUI Attorneys Explain Improper AdministrationYour Sacramento DUI attorneys will interview you carefully to determine whether the officer properly administered your test. Even sober suspects can have difficulty with the test due to the complex instructions. Sacramento DUI lawyers can discuss whether improper instructions may have led to faulty test results in your case, and will review whether the officer did the following:
Stop the instructions if you broke form (If so, your Sacramento DUI attorneys may argue that the officer should have waited for you to reposition yourself before continuing.); Note any problems with divided attention such as failing to look at your feet while counting.
Sacramento DUI Attorneys Can HelpFor more information about field sobriety tests and charges you may face, contact Sacramento DUI attorneys. Call Param Pabla today at (916) 285-7900.
