If I'm pulled over, what kinds of roadside tests can the officer ask me to perform?
If the police officer observes some evidence of alcohol usage, he/she will ask you to perform a series of "field sobriety tests" (FSTs). Typically, these tests measure your physical dexterity or mental acuity. Most officers will use a set battery of three to five of the following tests:
(1) recite the alphabet;
(2) count backwards;
(3) line-walking;
(4) finger-to-nose;
(5) heel-to-toe;
(6) balancing one foot at a time;
(7) fingers-to-thumb;
(8) hand pat;
(9) bending forward and backward with your eyes closed.
If you have chronic physical problems or physical limitations, have difficulty with your balance, walking, etc., it would be wise to inform the officer prior to taking the tests.
Also, in many localities the police routinely video-tape all stops. If so, the FST may also be video-taped.
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