Reader’s Question:

They say that a person who is arrested for DUI rarely passes the field sobriety tests here in Los Angeles, California. If I will be pulled over for DUI suspicion, how would I know if I pass the field sobriety tests?

Priscilla

Los Angeles, CA

Field Sobriety Tests or FST’s aren’t really “tests” in the way we usually think of “tests.” The main goal of FST’s is not really meant to determine whether or not you are drunk but to make you appear drunk. It could surprise you that most people, sober or not, “fail” these tests. Whether you fail or pass the tests is based totally on the police officer’s personal observations and impressions. Always remember that FST’s are entirely subjective and they do not conclusively determine whether or not you are drunk.

Keep in mind also that if you get arrested for DUI in Los Angeles, California, the officer would ask you to take the FST’s because he suspects that you were driving under the influence. He is gonna be looking for some evidence that you broke the law, not alternative explanations for your behavior even though there could be numerous factors that influence how you do on the FST’s that have nothing to do with alcohol.

Tags: DUI, DUI advice, DUI arrest, DUI lawyer