Understanding the Rules of Field Sobriety Tests in L.A.
A field sobriety test is one of many tools that officers use in Los Angeles to determine if a driver is under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Drivers commonly assume that they are required by law to participate in these motor skills tests, but field sobriety tests are voluntary. You have the right to decline. If, however, you have already consented to a field sobriety test, you should contact a skilled Los Angeles DUI defense lawyer right away.
During a traffic stop, an officer will try to detect the smell of alcohol. Empty bottles, slurred speech, or unusual behavior are all signs of intoxication. In some cases, an officer will ask the driver to exit the vehicle and perform any number of field sobriety tests.
