What Are Standardized Field Sobriety Tests (SFST’s)

Standardized Field Sobriety Tests (SFSTs) are a battery of tests that are used by law enforcement officers to determine whether a driver is under the influence of alcohol or drugs. In Illinois, as in many other states, SFSTs are an important tool used to gather evidence in driving under the influence (DUI) cases. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at SFSTs in Illinois, including what they are, how they are administered, and what they mean for drivers who are suspected of DUI.

What Are Standardized Field Sobriety Tests?

Standardized Field Sobriety Tests are a set of three tests that were developed by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in the 1980s. The tests are designed to measure a driver's coordination, balance, and ability to follow instructions, which are all important indicators of impairment.

The three tests that make up the SFST battery are:

1.     Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus (HGN): The HGN test involves the officer asking the driver to follow a moving object, such as a pen or a flashlight, with their eyes. The officer is looking for an involuntary jerking of the eye, which can be a sign of impairment.

2.     Walk and Turn (WAT): The WAT test involves the driver walking heel-to-toe along a straight line, turning around, and walking back. The officer is looking for indicators of impairment, such as difficulty balancing or following instructions.

3.     One-Leg Stand (OLS): The OLS test involves the driver standing on one foot and counting out loud for a certain amount of time. The officer is looking for indicators of impairment, such as swaying or hopping.

How Are Standardized Field Sobriety Tests Administered?

In Illinois, as in other states, SFSTs are administered by law enforcement officers who have received specialized training in their use. When a driver is pulled over on suspicion of DUI, the officer may ask them to perform SFSTs as part of a field sobriety test.

During the tests, the officer will give the driver clear instructions and will score their performance based on a set of standardized criteria. If the officer determines that the driver has failed one or more of the tests, they may be arrested on suspicion of DUI.

It's important to note that SFSTs are not foolproof, and there are many factors that can impact a driver's performance on the tests. For example, certain medical conditions, such as inner ear problems, can affect a driver's ability to balance or follow instructions. Similarly, fatigue or nervousness can also impact a driver's performance on the tests.

What Do Standardized Field Sobriety Tests Mean for Drivers in Illinois?

If you are pulled over on suspicion of DUI in Illinois and asked to perform SFSTs, it's important to remember that you have the right to refuse the tests. However, if you refuse, the officer may use your refusal as evidence of guilt in court.

If you do choose to perform SFSTs, it's important to remember that the results of the tests can be used as evidence against you in court. If you fail one or more of the tests, the officer may use this as evidence of impairment.

However, it's important to note that SFSTs are not the only evidence that can be used in a DUI case. Breathalyzer tests, blood tests, and other types of evidence can also be used to establish impairment.

If you are arrested on suspicion of DUI in Illinois, it's important to seek the advice of an experienced DUI defense attorney. An attorney can help you understand your rights, evaluate the evidence against you, and develop a defense strategy that is tailored to your unique situation.

Standardized Field Sobriety Tests are an important tool used by law enforcement officers in Illinois to determine whether a driver is under the influence of alcohol or drugs. While they are not foolproof, they are a reliable indicator of impairment and can be used as evidence in DUI cases.

If you are pulled over on suspicion of DUI in Illinois, it's important to remember that you have the right to refuse SFSTs. However, refusing may be used against you in court as evidence of guilt. If you choose to perform the tests, it's important to remember that the results can be used against you in court.

It's also important to remember that there are many factors that can impact a driver's performance on SFSTs, such as medical conditions, fatigue, and nervousness. If you believe that you were unfairly charged with DUI based on the results of SFSTs, it's important to speak to an experienced DUI defense attorney who can help you evaluate the evidence against you and develop a defense strategy that is tailored to your unique situation.

In conclusion, while Standardized Field Sobriety Tests are an important tool used by law enforcement officers in Illinois, they are not foolproof and there are many factors that can impact a driver's performance on the tests. If you are facing DUI charges in Illinois, it's important to seek the advice of an experienced DUI defense attorney who can help you navigate the legal system and protect your rights.