Understanding Field Sobriety Tests in Texas: What You Need to Know

Getting pulled over on suspicion of driving while intoxicated (DWI) can be a stressful experience. In Texas, law enforcement officers commonly use field sobriety tests to determine if a driver is impaired. But what exactly are these tests, and how accurate are they? In this blog post, we’ll explore field sobriety tests in Texas and how the experienced DWI attorneys at DWI Guys Texas can help protect your rights. If you find yourself facing DWI charges in San Antonio, New Braunfels, San Marcos, or Austin, don’t hesitate to contact us at (210) 570-2590 or visit www.dwiguystexas.com for a free consultation.

What Are Field Sobriety Tests?

Field sobriety tests (FSTs) are a series of physical and cognitive exercises that police officers use to evaluate a driver’s level of impairment. In Texas, there are three standardized field sobriety tests:

Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus (HGN) Test: The officer observes the driver’s eyes as they follow a slowly moving object, looking for involuntary jerking or twitching movements.

Walk-and-Turn Test: The driver is instructed to walk heel-to-toe in a straight line, turn around, and walk back. The officer looks for signs of impairment, such as poor balance or inability to follow instructions.

One-Leg Stand Test: The driver is asked to stand on one foot while counting aloud. The officer checks for signs of impairment like swaying or using arms for balance.

Are Field Sobriety Tests Accurate?

While these tests are designed to identify impaired drivers, they are not foolproof. Studies have shown that FSTs can be inaccurate, with false-positive rates ranging from 10% to 30%. Factors such as age, weight, medical conditions, and even anxiety can affect a driver’s performance on these tests.

How Can DWI Guys Texas Help?

If you’ve been arrested for DWI based on the results of field sobriety tests, it’s crucial to consult with a skilled criminal defense attorney. At DWI Guys Texas, our experienced attorneys understand the limitations of FSTs and will work diligently to challenge the evidence against you.

We serve clients in San Antonio, New Braunfels, San Marcos, and Austin, providing personalized legal representation tailored to your unique situation. Our team will thoroughly investigate your case, assess the validity of the field sobriety tests, and work to protect your rights.

Get the Legal Help You Deserve

If you or a loved one is facing DWI charges in Texas, don’t hesitate to reach out to DWI Guys Texas for expert legal representation. Call us today at (210) 570-2590 or visit www.dwiguystexas.com to schedule a free consultation. Let our knowledgeable and dedicated attorneys guide you through the complexities of the legal process and help you secure the best possible outcome for your case.

Disclaimer: The content on this website is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or establish an attorney-client relationship. Do not act or rely on this information without consulting a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction. Contacting this law firm or its attorneys through this site does not create an attorney-client relationship or duty of confidentiality.