This is one of the three standardized field sobriety tests. It’s virtually impossible to do properly. It requires you to put your heel next to your toe, walk on an imaginary straight line, heel to toe, counting out each step until you get to nine. They are required to make small turns and walk back the other way heel connected to your toe, counting out each step until you get to nine. You are not allowed to raise your arms. You are not allowed to lose your balance, and you want to make sure that you stay on the line.
Here are some of the concerns. If you’re over 50-years-old, if you’re overweight, if you’re wearing high heels, if it’s not a level dry surface, the test is invalid. More interestingly, the walk and turn test often is given on the street when there’s a lot of distractions, cars passing by at a high rate of speed, you’re nervous, you’ve never practiced it before.
They count failed clues as stepping off the line, raising your arms, losing your balance, not counting the steps, not keeping your feet heal-to-toe. The problem with the test is it’s virtually impossible to pass and it also only has a 66 percent accuracy rate, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration who is the organization that actually approves these field sobriety test.
If you were administered the walk and turn field sobriety test after being pulled over as a suspect for driving while intoxicated and you feel as though you were unfairly administered the test, seek legal counsel with an experienced attorney.
If you are in need of legal counsel in New York State, please feel free to contact KCS Law and we would be happy to assist you.