Denver DUI Attorney
A field sobriety test is generally conducted by police officers to determine a suspect’s blood alcohol level content (BAC). If the suspect fails to pass a field sobriety test, he or she can be placed under arrest and be charged with a DUI. If you are arrested or charged with a DUI, contact the Tiftickjian Law Firm, P.C. and speak with an experienced Denver DUI attorney who can defend and protect your legal rights.
The following is a list of common field sobriety testes used by Denver police and officers around the country:
- Breathalyzer test
- The Horizontal Gaze Nystagmust test
- The walk and turn test
- The one legged stand test
Breathalyzer test
The breathalyzer test is the most popular method of field sobriety testing. It is lightweight and small in size. It is easy to administer and produces quick test results.
The breathalyzer test is a small sized machine that detects BAC with a suspect’s breath sample. The machine is programmed to detect Ethyl alcohol, and if the amount is over the legal limit, the suspect is placed under arrest. However, the breathalyzer machine is not always accurate. In many cases, a breathalyzer test can be administered incorrectly or simply malfunction. Contact our Denver DUI attorney to learn more about faulty breathalyzer tests.
The horizontal gaze Nystagmust test
The horizontal gaze nystagmust test (HGN) is also easy to administer. An officer conducts the test by holding an object in front of the suspect’s face and slowly moves it from side to side. The suspect is asked to follow the object while the officer checks for any signs of involuntary movement categorized as Nystagmus.
Nystagmus is described as involuntary movement of the eye that causes jerking or trembling. If the suspect’s eyes begin jerking prior to reaching 45 degrees, this can be indication of high BAC. But not all cases of Nystagmus are related to drinking. Many people who are on medications or suffer neurological disorders suffer from Nystagmus.
Contact our experienced Denver DUI attorneys to learn how we can defend you against the horizontal gaze Nystagmust test.
The Walk and Turn test
The walk and turn test is another popular method used by police. It is less reliable than the HGN test.
The walk and turn test is generally conducted on a dry and flat surface. The suspect is instructed to keep hands at side and complete nine heel-to-toe steps on a visible line or walk parallel to a curb. The officer observes from a distance and looks for the following:
- Starts before the instructions are finished
- Failure to follow instructions
- Cannot keep balance
- Incorrect number of steps
- Steps off the line
- Heel and toe not touching
- Cannot complete the test
Many individuals that suffer physical impairments have a tough time completing this task. Weather conditions can also be a factor.
Contact our experienced Denver DUI attorneys for professional defense.
One Legged Stand Test
The one legged stand test is the least reliable method. It requires the suspect to raise one foot while counting out loud for as many as 30 seconds. The officer will look for any signs of intoxication such as:
- The use of the arms
- Swaying while balancing
- Unable to maintain posture
- Hopping to maintain balance
- Cannot follow instructions
- Cannot complete test
People with disabilities, old age, or over weight can have a difficult time completing this test. There are other factors that can come in play, contact one of our Denver DUI attorneys for more information.
The Tiftickjian Law Firm P.C.
If you or someone you know is arrested for DUI, contact an experienced Denver Dui attorney who can fight to protect your rights and defend you in court.
At the Tiftickjian Law Firm, P.C., we are committed to defending and protecting the rights of our clients. Our Denver DUI attorneys understand Colorado’s complex DUI laws and have successfully represented hundreds of clients in court. We meticulously investigate each case and diligently work to prepare a strong defense.
For a free initial consultation, please contact our Denver DUI attorney at the Tiftickjian Law Firm, P.C.