Cobb County Field Sobriety Test Lawyer
If you have been pulled over on suspicion of DUI in Cobb County, chances are the officer asked you to perform field sobriety tests. These roadside assessments, while portrayed as objective measures of impairment, are rife with flaws that can lead to wrongful arrests and DUI charges. At The Spizman Firm, our seasoned Cobb County field sobriety test lawyers know how to scrutinize field sobriety tests and use their shortcomings to build a strong defense for our clients. If you are facing DUI charges after “failing” field sobriety tests, contact us today for a free consultation.
Flaws in Field Sobriety Testing
Multiple factors can cause a sober person to perform poorly on field sobriety tests:
- Uneven pavement, debris, or slick surfaces
- Poor lighting at night
- Flashing police lights
- Inclement weather like rain, wind, or cold
- Restrictive clothing or inappropriate footwear
- Nervousness and anxiety about being pulled over
- Lack of balance or coordination unrelated to alcohol
- Vertigo, inner ear disorders, or neurological conditions
- Fatigue, illness, injury, or physical disability
Officers are supposed to ask about medical issues and make accommodations, but they often neglect this step. They are also expected to administer the tests in a standardized manner but frequently deviate from protocols in ways that make the tests harder to complete successfully.
Your Right to Refuse Field Sobriety Tests in Georgia
It is important to understand that field sobriety tests are completely voluntary in Georgia. You have the right to politely decline to participate, and the officer cannot legally compel you to perform them. Many people worry that refusing will make them look guilty, but the refusal cannot be used against you in court. Opting out may lead to arrest, but so might “failing” the tests – and performing them generates evidence the prosecution can use against you later.
If you do choose to attempt field sobriety tests, be sure to clearly verbalize any issues that could impact your performance, like injuries, illnesses, or disabilities. Remain calm and follow instructions carefully. Make the officer demonstrate each test before you attempt it. If you are arrested, your Cobb County field sobriety test lawyer can investigate whether the tests were administered properly and identify other reasons besides alcohol impairment for any perceived issues with your performance.
Challenging Field Sobriety Tests in Cobb County
DUI Cases Field sobriety test evidence can be challenged scientifically and procedurally in Cobb County DUI cases. At The Spizman Firm, we frequently use tactics like:
- Questioning the officer’s training and experience in administering field sobriety tests
- Highlighting instances where the officer deviated from NHTSA standards
- Presenting video evidence that tells a different story than the officer’s report
- Raising reasonable doubt about the cause of “clues” or perceived impairment
Just because you were arrested for DUI after field sobriety tests does not mean you will be convicted. A savvy Cobb County field sobriety test attorney can assess the strength of the evidence against you and craft an effective defense strategy. With the high costs and consequences of a DUI conviction in Cobb County, it is well worth putting up a vigorous fight.
Contact Us Today
Field sobriety tests are not the ironclad proof of impairment that officers make them out to be. If you were arrested for DUI based on field sobriety test performance in Cobb County, do not lose hope. The Spizman Firm’s knowledgeable Cobb County field sobriety test lawyers are here to protect your rights. Contact us today to discuss how we can help you.
