Field Sobriety Tests in New York

New York State takes driving under the influence of alcohol very seriously. Despite the fact that it is well known that drunk driving is very dangerous for the driver and others on the road, these acts still occur regularly. When a law enforcement officer pulls someone over on suspicion of driving while intoxicated, they will typically administer a series of field sobriety tests that are used to determine the individual’s potential for intoxication.

There are three types of field sobriety tests. The horizontal gaze nystagmus test, the walk and turn test, and the one leg stand test. These tests are designed to be difficult for an intoxicated person to pass but for some, it is actually impossible based on circumstances that are unrelated to alcohol or intoxication. For example, if an individual is wearing high heels during the walk and turn test but the law enforcement officer fails to let them know that they are able to remove the heels for the test, it may be considered invalid.

There are many different defenses to field sobriety tests and to driving while intoxicated as a whole. If you have been charged with a DUI, contact our firm today.

Kevin T. Conway has over 30 years of experience as a Spring Valley criminal attorney handling DUI, DWI, traffic violations, violent crimes, sex crimes, illegal gun possession, shoplifting, and juvenile crimes. Attorney Conway is also experienced in commercial law matters, zoning law, and estate planning. If you need a Rockland County criminal lawyer, contact our Spring Valley office for a free consultation.