Failing Field Sobriety Tests

When an individual is pulled over on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, they may be required to submit to field sobriety tests. These tests, which largely consist of simple physical and mental activities, test areas such as motor skills and concentration which alcohol tends to impair. However, they are a poor objective measure of an individual’s level of intoxication, and many people may be unable to successfully complete these tests for a variety of reasons unrelated to alcohol.

If you or someone you know has been arrested for DUI, you need an experienced legal professional to ensure that your rights and interests are given the full protection of the law. Contact the Champaign-Urbana DUI defense lawyers of Bruno Law Offices today at (217) 328-6000 to discuss your case with a qualified member of our legal team.

Common Reasons for Failing Field Sobriety Tests

Some statistics have suggested that as many as 20% of failed sobriety tests are caused by influences unrelated to alcohol. Some of these common causes may include:

  • Old age
  • Being overweight
  • Arthritis or other medical conditions
  • Anxiety or nervousness
  • Improper administration of the test

For these reasons, field sobriety tests are an unreliable indicator of intoxication, and may be unlikely to stand as the sole basis for a DUI conviction.

Contact Us

If you or someone you know has been arrested for DUI, an experienced legal professional can help you to clear your name. Contact the Champaign-Urbana DUI defense attorneys of Bruno Law Offices today at (217) 328-6000 to learn more about what you can do to protect yourself from these damaging charges.