What are the field sobriety tests a driver is subjected to? Can they be refused?
If a driver is asked to exit the vehicle under suspicion of DUI, there are a range of field sobriety tests that may be administered, and most law enforcement officers will exercise a battery of three to five tests. These tests may include, but are not limited to: heel-to-toe (also referred to as “walk-and-turn”), finger-to-nose, one-leg stand, hand pat, finger-to-thumb, alphabet recitation, and horizontal gaze, which requires the driver to visually trace a flashlight or pen in which to study eye response. The officer may also inquire as to the amount of alcohol consumed, any drugs ingested, or past DUI offenses, all of which the driver is not required to answer. Although it is likely that an officer has determined the sobriety of a driver, and the need for subsequent chemical tests before even administering field tests, field tests are not legally required and can be refused. Do I have to submit to a breath, blood, or urine test? No. However, refusing such tests is generally not a good
