With the invention of ride sharing apps such as Uber and Lyft you would think that DUI’s would be practically nonexistent in a heavily populated state like New Jersey. Not to mention the numerous forms of public transportation, which have their limitations of course. Unfortunately, the Simon Law Group still sends out more than a hundred DUI letters a week to offer our services. Some of this has to do with living in more remote areas of the state with a lack of public transportation and the aforementioned ride sharing apps. Although regardless of where you live it's important to be aware of when you've had too much to drink and not get behind the wheel of a motor vehicle for your safety and the safety of everyone else on the road.
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.
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!