An Idaho Lawyer Helping You Deal With Field Sobriety Tests
Many people who have been arrested for DUI often ask us about the field sobriety tests that were used in their case. Berglund Law, PLLC, in Boise, Idaho, can help you understand exactly what was done and look at the situation to help you build a strong and effective criminal defense.
Common Field Sobriety Tests
There are several field sobriety tests (or roadside tests) commonly used by Idaho police:
- Horizontal gaze nystagmus, which tests a jerking response by your eyes when looking side to side
- One leg stand
- Walk and turn
- Recite the alphabet
- Touch your finger to your nose
Law enforcement may call in a DRE-drug recognition expert-who administers different tests if police believe other drugs are involved-stimulants like amphetamines or cocaine, or depressants like opiates or muscle relaxers, Valium, Xanax and marijuana.
These drug recognition experts will perform any number of different tests to determine whether or not drugs are present. They may look at the pupils, check your heart rate or ask you to close your eyes and estimate the passage of time.
Can I Refuse a Field Sobriety Test?
If you refuse a field sobriety test, the police have a right to do a forced blood draw. Many people are under the mistaken impression that it is a good idea to refuse to cooperate with tests designed to measure blood alcohol content or the presence of drugs, but refusing a test can lead to a one-year driver's license suspension as well as even harsher penalties if you refuse to cooperate a second time.
Contact Us
If you have been arrested for drunk driving, you must take action to protect your rights. To talk with an attorney at Berglund Law, PLLC, you can call us at 208-608-5071 to schedule a free and confidential initial consultation. You may also complete our online contact form.
