DUI Tests in the State of Illinois are routinely performed to drivers when there is reasonable suspicion they are under the influence.
Field Sobriety Tests
Field sobriety tests are often done by police officers who suspect a driver of drunk driving or driving under the influence of drugs. An officer can also have the driver do a breathalyzer test or a blood or urine test at a medical facility. If you have been arrested after allegedly failing a field sobriety test, it is vital that you contact a Lake County DUI defense attorney immediately. Defense Attorney Bernardo Isacovici knows criminal law as it pertains to DUI/DWI offenses and may be able to help you or someone you love avoid the harsh penalties and fines associated with a DUI conviction.
Types of Lake County Field Sobriety Tests
Standardized field sobriety tests include the walk and turn, one-leg stand and horizontal gaze nystagmus (jerky involuntary eye movements) eye test. In the walk and turn, the officer gives you directions to take nine heel to toe steps while counting aloud the number of steps you have taken. The individual then turns around 180 degrees and returns the same way walking heel to toe for nine more steps. The police officer may arrest the driver for DUI if it appears the suspect can’t keep balance, loses count of steps and in some way doesn’t follow full directions.
For the one-leg stand, the officer has the driver lift one leg six inches off the ground and count to 30 while keeping arms at his sides. If the driver hops, can’t keep balance or can’t follow the directions, the officer may arrest him.
The horizontal gaze nystagmus requires the suspected drunk driver to follow with the eyes only a pen or other object moved from side to side by the officer. If the officer feels the driver cannot follow the object smoothly with the eyes, an arrest may be made.
Sobriety Test Defenses
Besides being highly subjective, field sobriety test can be failed for a variety of physiological and psychological reasons. These have nothing to do with being under the influence of drugs or alcohol. A Lake County field sobriety test lawyer may be able to help get the charges against you dropped.
Contact the Law Office of Bernardo Isacovici for a consultation regarding DUI tests.
