Field Sobriety Tests in Georgia

Most DUI arrests in Georgia will include some form of what are referred to as field sobriety tests. Field sobriety tests are designed to give a rough estimation of an individual’s blood alcohol content; however, these tests are not without error. If you or a loved one have undergone a field sobriety test before being charged and arrested for DUI, our firm may be able to challenge the evidence in your case.

At The Law Offices of Robert F. Pirkle, our lead attorney has 35 years of legal experience and has established a track record of success. Our legal team is trained to challenge the prosecution and effectively fight for your future. Over the years, we have handled thousands of criminal defense and DUI cases.

To learn more about your legal options, contact our firm for a free case evaluation!

Types of Field Sobriety Tests

Typically, officers administer field sobriety tests if they pull an individual over on suspicion of DUI. While these tests are not foolproof, they are often used as grounds for arrest. Our team can comb through any footage recorded of these tests and challenge the findings, as well as any mistakes that law enforcement may have made while administering the tests.

Three main tests that are usually administered:

• Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus Test: An officer will typically hold out a finger, pen, or other point of reference at arm’s length, move it horizontally across the suspect’s field of vision, and require the suspect to follow their movement. If certain jerking movements of the eyeball are detected, then the officer may chalk the results down to intoxication.
• Walk-and-Turn Test: An officer will ask the suspect to walk nine steps, heel to toe, in a straight line before pivoting and making nine heel to toe steps back. Wobbling, starting too early, or the inability to make a straight line may all be taken as evidence of intoxication.
• One Leg Stand Test: An officer will ask the suspect to stand on one foot for 35 seconds with their arms by their sides. As with the walk-and-turn test, any irregular movement or inability to complete the action may be taken as evidence of intoxication.