If you are like many people in Texas, having a casual beer or glass of wine when out at dinner or after work with colleagues is not uncommon. You may also commonly drive home after these events. Anyone who drives after drinking even a small amount of alcohol should know about the types of tests officers may use when determining whether or not to arrest someone for driving under the influence.
As explained by FieldSobrietyTests.org, there are three tests used at the scene of a stop that officers look to in order to support them making an arrest. One of these is called the one-leg stand test. In this test, you would need to stand on one foot with the other leg raised about half a foot off the ground. You are not allowed to use your hands or arms to help you remain balanced. An officer will instruct you on how you should count while maintaining your balance.
This test is said to have an accuracy rate of 65 percent. Persons with back, leg, inner ear or weight problems may have difficulty passing this test even if they have not consumed alcohol. Older people may also have more trouble with balance. Road surface and conditions and the shoes you wear may also impact your ability to execute this test.
If you would like to learn more about the one-leg stand test or other things you may be asked to do during a drunk driving investigation, please feel free to visit the field sobriety test page of our Texas criminal defense website.