Monder Law Group - News
Understanding the One Leg Stand Field Sobriety Test in a San Diego DUI Case
This test is administered along with other standardized field sobriety tests. This test requires the suspect to stand on one leg while the other leg is extended in front of the suspect six-inches above the ground. The officer would need to make sure the weather conditions are sufficient to perform this test without causing undue harm or danger to the suspect. Furthermore, the suspect may have medical conditions that would prevent the performance of this test. Individuals who are overweight may have a difficult time performing this exam.
Nevertheless, if the officer chooses to have the suspect perform the exam, then the following instructions are required:
- Suspect must stand with feet together with arms down at the sides
- Suspect must maintain that position while officer gives the instructions and tells suspect to begin
- Suspect must understand the instructions.
- Suspect must raise leg six inches off ground with toe pointed forward parallel to ground when told to begin
- Suspect arms must be by side the entire time until test is completed
- Suspect must count in head and not out loud when foot is off the ground.
- It is important that test last for thirty seconds and get count from Suspect
- Total the clues.
The officer will add up all the clues once the test is completed. Two or more clues classify the suspect as having a BAC at or above .08%. The one leg stand has four clues for impairment. The clues include swaying while balancing, using arms to balance, hopping, putting foot down. Keeping the number of clues down is the objective from the prospective of the suspect.
If you have any questions about your DUI in San Diego, contact San Diego DUI specialist Attorney Vik Monder at 619.405.0063 or visit San Diego Criminal Lawyer