I have been receiving emails and calls about how to beat the Field Sobriety
Tests. As promised, here goes . . .
First, let me say that the only way to assure yourself that you do not get
arrested for driving under the influence is to avoid drinking alcohol and driving a motor vehicle. That being said,
the second best technique is a good defense. As I previously stated, I
would not do field sobriety tests or provide a breath sample if I was
suspected of driving under the influence. I do not trust random physical
tasks or a breath machine to tell me if I can safely operate a motor vehicle.
However, if I were to gamble on taking the field sobriety tasks, I know
that I have an advantage because . . .
PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT!!!!
I don’t use the expression as a cliche! When I attended the police
academy we, as future police officers, practiced field sobriety tests
almost daily. Muscle memory eventually kicks in and you are able to stand
on one leg for thirty seconds, walk a straight line and say the alphabet.
Practice, practice, practice.
The other reality of practicing is that you always practice as close to
possible as “game time conditions”. This means you should
actually practice after consuming alcohol!!!
One night at a party one of the other guests asked me about field sobriety
tasks, I went to demonstrate and lost my balance. I ultimately completed
the tests successfully but after that I learned the necessity of practicing
under “game time conditions”! Your balance is not the same
and your memory is not the same unless you train your muscles and memory
while consuming alcohol.
Remember, the only way to ensure you never receive a DUI is to never drive
a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs or a combination
thereof!!!
If you find yourself facing DUI charges, or other
criminal charges, contact Bluestein Johnson & Burke immediately by filling out our
online contact form!