One test that the police use during a DUI investigation is the one-leg stand test. For this test, the officer will instruct you to raise one foot a few inches off of the ground, point your toe, and count to a specific number (usually 20) while watching your foot. If your foot touches the ground or if you sway while doing this test, it will count as a clue that you are DUI. You may also raise your hands slightly in order to help you balance, but this counts as a clue as well if you raise them too far.
The one-leg stand is an extremely subjective test. I have often asked police officers to demonstrate how to do it properly during DUI trials. They struggle to do the test in a well-lit, carpeted courtroom. It should come as no surprise that most people can’t “pass” the one-leg stand during a DUI investigation, especially if the test is administered late at night or on an uneven surface.
If you are charged with a DUI, you need an experienced DUI attorney that can point out all of the flaws in the one-leg stand test and help beat your charges. Contact us today for a free consultation to learn how we can help you with your case.