New tests will help keep roads safer for all

Nov 21, 2012

A valuable tool used by law enforcement officers to keep impaired drivers off the roadways is the standardized field sobriety testing.

If an officer suspects impairment, he or she can stop a vehicle and ask the driver to stand on one leg, walk a straight line, heel to toe and follow a penlight with their eyes.

All are part of the standard field sobriety tests used across the nation.

While taking the test is not mandatory, those refusing can be arrested for cause, and a blood sample can be drawn to detect alcohol or drug impairment. Those refusing the test also automatically lose their driving privileges for 30 days.

However, many drivers stopped were able to skirt the field sobriety tests due to a variety of excuses. A bad back, balance issues or leg and foot problems are common excuses. ...

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