In Texas, police officers may pull you over if they have reason to believe that you are driving a vehicle while intoxicated (DWI). This typically happens if they witness erratic driving, slow reaction times or see bottles of liquor inside your car. If this happens, an officer will likely ask you to do some tests to help them gather evidence for a DWI arrest.
While they might seem simple, they are not completely foolproof. Some factors can throw off your performance. Because these results may justify a DWI arrest, it is important to know which factors to watch for.
Factors that might skew field sobriety test results
Field sobriety tests are designed to measure your balance, concentration and mental capabilities. Despite this, there are many conditions, most of which do not even involve alcohol, that can affect the results of these tests. Factors to consider include:
- Road surface and slope: Gravel, uneven pavement or loose dirt
- Lighting and weather: Glare from headlights, rain, wind, heat or low temperatures that might make you shiver
- Traffic and noise: Distractions and other conditions that can agitate you or make it more difficult to follow instructions
- Footwear and clothing: Tight or restrictive clothing, boots or high heels
- Physical or medical issues: Disabilities, injuries or health conditions that can throw off your balance
- Age and weight factors: Changes in balance and flexibility
- Human error: Unclear instructions or improper observations from the officer
When these conditions are present, they may influence how accurately a field sobriety test reflects your sobriety. If you feel that any of these external factors affect your results during a test, it is essential to take note of these conditions.
Why evidence is critical for your defense
When it comes to DWI arrests, evidence matters as it may be the deciding factor over whether the court issues a charge against you or not. Your performance in a field sobriety test matters. This means writing down details about road conditions, weather, health issues or other conditions that might affect how well you do.
You may also want to review dashcam footage, body camera recordings and police reports that describe the tests and their administration. With the right evidence, you can strengthen your defense and avoid a wrongful DWI charge in court.