Why can sober drivers fail field sobriety tests?

There are several reasons why a sober driver might fail a field sobriety test (FST), despite not being under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Some of these reasons include:

1. Nervousness or anxiety: FSTs can be stressful and intimidating, especially if the person being tested is not familiar with the procedure or feels intimidated by law enforcement officers.
2. Physical limitations: Some people may have physical limitations that make it difficult for them to perform certain FSTs, such as standing on one leg or walking in a straight line. This can be due to factors such as age, injury, or medical conditions.
3. Fatigue or exhaustion: If a person is tired, it can affect their ability to perform the FSTs accurately.
4. Environmental factors: FSTs are often conducted in busy or distracting environments, such as on the side of a busy road. These distractions can make it harder for a person to concentrate and perform the tests accurately.

It’s worth noting that while FSTs can be an indicator of impairment, they are not always accurate and can be affected by a variety of factors. Ultimately, it is up to the officer conducting the test to use their judgment in determining whether a person is impaired or not.

Exhaustion

Exhaustion, or extreme tiredness, can affect a person’s ability to perform well on a field sobriety test (FST). When a person is exhausted, their coordination and balance can be compromised, making it more difficult for them to perform physical tasks such as standing on one leg or walking in a straight line. Exhaustion can also affect a person’s cognitive function, making it harder for them to follow instructions and react quickly to changing situations.

In addition to affecting a person’s performance on FSTs, exhaustion can also cause symptoms that can be mistaken for alcohol or drug impairment, such as bloodshot eyes, slurred speech, and a lack of focus. This is why it’s important for law enforcement officers to take into account all of the factors that may be affecting a person’s performance on a field sobriety test, including their level of exhaustion, before deciding on impairment.

Medication

Certain medications can also affect a person’s ability to perform well on a field sobriety test (FST). Some prescription and over-the-counter medications can cause side effects such as dizziness, drowsiness, blurred vision, or impaired coordination, which can mimic the symptoms of alcohol or drug impairment.

In some cases, a person may not even be aware that their medication can affect their ability to perform an FST. It’s important for individuals who are taking medication to read the warning labels and speak with their healthcare provider to understand how the medication may affect their ability to drive or perform physical tasks.

If a person is pulled over and suspected of driving under the influence, they should inform the law enforcement officer if they are taking any medication that could affect their ability to perform an FST. In some cases, the officer may still administer the test, but will take into account the medication the person is taking when deciding on impairment sobriety.

Anxiety

Anxiety can also affect a person’s ability to perform well on a field sobriety test (FST). When a person is anxious, their body may experience physical symptoms such as shaking, sweating, or increased heart rate, which can affect their balance and coordination. Anxiety can also impair a person’s cognitive function, making it harder for them to focus and follow instructions sobriety.

In addition, being pulled over and subjected to a field sobriety test can be a stressful and intimidating experience, especially for those who have never gone through it before. This can further increase a person’s anxiety levels, which can impact their ability to perform the FST accurately.

It’s important for law enforcement officers to take into account a person’s anxiety level when administering an FST, and to provide clear and calm instructions to help alleviate any additional stress or confusion. In some cases, an officer may choose to delay administering the FST until the person has had time to calm down and regain their composure and sobriety.