Florida DUI Lawyer Helps You Question Unreliable Field Sobriety Test Results
Standing on one leg in the dark, trying to follow confusing instructions from the police officer while cars whiz past—that was your introduction to field sobriety testing. Now you're staring at DUI charges that threaten your driver's license, your job, and your freedom. What you might not realize is that these tests aren't as foolproof as law enforcement would have you believe.
At Flaherty & Merrifield, our Fort Walton Beach DUI defense lawyers know that many factors can affect field sobriety test performance, painting an inaccurate picture. Knowing these factors can help you fight for a dismissal of charges and avoid conviction.
The Truth Behind Field Sobriety Testing in Florida
Most people may think field sobriety tests, like the horizontal gaze nystagmus test, are scientific and objective, but the reality is far messier. These tests often call for perfect balance and coordination under far-from-perfect conditions. Even perfectly sober people can struggle with these unnatural tasks.
Medical Issues That Can Affect Your Performance
Health conditions can throw off your balance and coordination. Your body might be working against you without you even knowing it.
That old knee injury from your high school sports days? It matters. The inner ear infection you had last month? That counts too, making you sway, even when you're trying your hardest to stand still. Even common conditions like arthritis or back pain can make these tests unreliable. Even anxiety about the traffic stop itself can cause trembling or loss of focus that has nothing to do with alcohol.
Officers rarely ask about medical conditions before starting the tests. Others might ignore or minimize any health concerns you try to explain. Our team makes sure these crucial details come to light.
Difficult Road and Weather Conditions
Weather and road conditions can turn an already challenging test into an impossible task. Picture trying to maintain perfect balance:
- In a Florida downpour
- On a sloped shoulder
- In gusty coastal winds
- On loose gravel or broken pavement
- While fighting glare from emergency lights
Improper Test Administration
Officers must follow specific protocols when conducting field sobriety tests. Your DUI lawyer may examine training issues, such as incorrect instructions, failure to account for physical limitations, or non-adherence to standardized procedures.
Similarly, an investigation may yield documentation problems. Your DUI attorney may discover poor-quality video evidence, missing or incomplete records, or inconsistent reporting. These can all help to fight the results of your DUI field sobriety tests.
The Connection Between Different Types of DUI Testing
Police typically use three different testing methods when they suspect drunk driving, each with its own flaws.
Field Sobriety Tests
Field sobriety tests consist of roadside exercises designed to check your balance and coordination. But these tests are just the beginning.
Roadside Breath Tests
Officers often use handheld breath testing devices on the roadside. These preliminary breath tests aren't as reliable as you might think. Something as simple as heartburn or breath mints can throw off the results. The devices require regular calibration and maintenance to work properly, and officers must wait a specific amount of time before testing.
Blood Alcohol Content Tests
More formal testing at the police station may include blood tests or larger breath testing machines. While these tests might seem more scientific, they aren’t perfect either. Blood samples can be mishandled. Testing machines can malfunction. Time delays between driving and testing can raise questions about the results.
How They Work Together
Our Fort Walton Beach DUI defense team looks at how all these pieces fit together. A problem with one type of test often suggests problems with others. Maybe the officer who couldn't properly conduct a field sobriety test also made mistakes with the breath testing procedure.
Florida DUI Penalties and Consequences
A DUI conviction in Florida reaches far beyond the courtroom. Yes, you're looking at fines starting at $500, possible jail time, and a suspended license. But, the ripple effects touch every part of your life.
Your insurance rates could skyrocket. Future employers may see the conviction during background checks. A conviction could jeopardize your immigration application. If you drive for work, your career could be in jeopardy. Professional licenses, from nursing to real estate, could be at risk, too.
Let Our Florida DUI Defense Team Review Your Case
Don't let flawed field sobriety tests derail your future. At Flaherty & Merrifield, we dig deep to spot problems with these tests that others might miss. Let us examine your case carefully and explain all your options for fighting back against these serious charges.
