Since field sobriety tests are highly subjective, it is important for motorists to realize that many factors can affect an individual’s performance, such as emotional or physical conditions, rigorous testing conditions, officer bias, or the inherit difficulty to the average person.
Physical Tests – On the physical field sobriety tests, numerous factors can cause imbalance: 1) weather conditions—wind, extreme temperatures or a slippery surface; 2) defendant’s shoes, especially the height and shape, or material of the sole; 3) old age, arthritis, physical injuries or defects; 4) illness, common cold, sinus or ear infection; and 5) emotional conditions, such as nervousness, anger, or other factors that inhibit concentration.
Caffeine – Interestingly enough, caffeine has an adverse effect on test results. The combination of alcohol and caffeine has a greater impact on muscular coordination and accurate timing. Even minor amounts of alcohol combined with caffeine can cause a defendant to fail the field sobriety tests.
Biological Clock – Another contributing factor is the circadian rhythm, which involves the 24-hour biological clocks in humans. Persons are more likely to perform poorly on field sobriety tests at midnight or early morning. Similarly, a person experiencing jet lag will perform the tests less adeptly than usual.
If you have been arrested and charged with a DUI, contact DUI defense lawyer in Sacramento Richard Allaye Chan Jr. for free consultation. Call (916) 446-4400 today.
Allaye Chan Law
1000 G Street, Suite 220
Sacramento, CA 95814
(916) 446-4400
