The Problem With The Walk And Turn Field Sobriety Test

Before I even get started, I want to disclose that I am a DUI attorney. I know, I know, that means everything I am saying here is probably slanted and jaded to conform to my thinking. But maybe it isn't. And if it isn't, it would be extremely important information to know, right? So, maybe you should just read along a little bit and see what you think.

This is an article about the walk and turn field sobriety test. I think we all know it. The instructions go a little something like this.

"I want you to stand with your arms at your side and your place your right heel against the front of your left foot. Stay in this position until I'm finished giving you the rest of the instructions. You are going to start the test by placing your left foot in front of your right, heel to toe. Take nine steps forward, and then pivot around your left foot and take nine steps back. Focus on your feet while you are doing the test. Begin."

There are 8 clues associated with this test. If you get 2 clues, you fail. Clues include raising your hands six inches above your side and failing to keep your feet at least 1/2 inch together. Does it sound stupid yet?

There are several problems with this test, and you don't have to be Sherlock Holmes, or a criminal attorney, to see what they are. First, what does this have to do with driving a vehicle? Second, is it scored differently depending on age (I would think someone in their 50s would perform very differently than someone in their 20s)? Third, is there any scientific data to back this up (there is not)? And finally, are nerves, the fact that you are on the side of a road with a cop baring down on you with flashing lights behind you, and the fact that you've probably never taken this test before taken into account (they are not)?

If you think this sounds easy, try it. Remember, don't lift your arms, keep the heel and toe at most 1/2 inch apart, and follow the instructions precisely (no swaying either). It is actually really hard to do, even in a controlled environment.