With July 4th this Wednesday, we wanted to take a moment to remind you that if you've been drinking and get behind the wheel of a car, you will face serious repercussions in the state of New Jersey. Anyone regardless of size or age who is above a 0.8 percent BAC (Blood Alcohol Content) will be arrested for a DUI/DWI. This is no small matter, being charged with a DUI/DWI may result in severe fines, a loss of license or even jail. The police know that this is the time when people let loose and enjoy NJ's many beaches and other scenic locales. They will be turning up their own heat to make sure people are enjoying the holiday responsibly.
If you do find yourself stopped by the police under the suspicion of driving while intoxicated either from drinking or from some other sense altering narcotic. It may be helpful to be aware of what sort of tests the police will put you through when you've heard the dastardly phrase, "please step out of the vehicle."
The Standardized Field Sobriety Test (SFST) generally consists of three parts that help the officer look for balance, coordination and whether they’re able to maintain focus. That's not to say that these are exclusively the tests you will go through. The test is also endorsed by the National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration. The three parts are…
One-Leg Stand: With one leg lifted at least 6 inches off the ground the driver is asked to count to 30. If there is considerable swaying or stumbling that may be an indicator
Walk and Turn: You have most likely driven by someone attempting to complete this section of the SFST. It involves the driver stepping heel to toe for nine steps and then repeat the action in the opposite direction. The officer will be looking not only for balance and coordination but also your alertness to the given instructions.
Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus: Although this test sounds like a spell from Harry Potter it is actually referring to the jerking of the eye as it gazes to the side. It is used for testing as the movement becomes more pronounced when alcohol is in the driver’s system. The test will look for three things, the ability to follow a moving object like an officer’s finger or pen, distinct eye jerking, and eye-jerking within 45 degrees of center.
These tests have been found to have around 91 percent accuracy and are good indicators when the police are looking to make an arrest. Some of the other tests you may have to go through are reciting variations of the ABC's and touching your nose with your finger when your eyes are closed.
These tests are usually followed by a breathalyzer. You may refuse a breathalyzer but it could potentially lead to larger legal repercussions. Failure to accurately complete the tasks will significantly raise the possibility of arrest.
While enjoying the holiday, be it down at the shore, a barbecue or anywhere else you may be celebrating, remember to do it responsibly, drinking and driving has a cost both monetarily and potentially your future.
If you are seeking representation for DUI DWI or any other related driving while intoxicated charge call today for a free consultation 800-709-1131 or fill out a contact form on our website for a no-cost consultation.We hope to hear from you today!
