Field Sobriety Tests
Field Sobriety Tests are used by police officers to determine if there might be probable cause for a DUI arrest. There are a few different types of tests officers use including asking you to walk a straight line, standing on one leg, and following an officer’s finger or pen with only your eyes. This is often what many people think of when they hear “DUI.” That’s because a field sobriety test is used in almost every DUI case.
Field Sobriety Tests are very tricky and often subjective. There are many variables that can affect the way you perform during the test including normal behavior such as anxiety and exhaustion.
Chemical BAC Tests
If you are pulled over because an officer suspects you to have been driving under the influence, the officer will most likely ask you to submit to a breath, blood, or urine test that will test your blood alcohol concentration or BAC. In Connecticut, you have the right to refuse to take the test; however, in doing so you will automatically be exposed to a long period that your license will be suspended. This is because Connecticut is an “implied consent” state, meaning that when you operate a motor vehicle you are automatically consenting to a BAC test.
All officers are required to give you an Implied Consent Advisory when asking you to submit to a BAC test. This states that you understand all consequences associated with refusing the take the test.