Can I Refuse a Field Sobriety Test?

A field sobriety test is designed to measure a person’s level of impairment following a DUI stop. In Tennessee, you are allowed to refuse a field sobriety test without suffering legal consequences. However, if you do refuse to participate, you may be asked to take a blood chemistry or breathalyzer test. You generally do not get a choice on which one, and a refusal to comply will result in significant legal consequences. If you have recently been accused of a DUI, do not wait to contact our Nashville DUI lawyers at Andrew C. Beasley Law, PLLC.

Why Field Sobriety Test Results Are Not Always Reliable

Even when a driver submits to field sobriety testing, the results are not necessarily accurate. These tests were developed by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and must be administered according to specific protocols. Officers are required to provide clear instructions, conduct the tests on level ground, and score each test using standardized criteria. Any deviation from these procedures can compromise the validity of the results.

Beyond procedural errors, a number of physical and environmental factors can affect performance on a field sobriety test, including:

• Medical conditions: Inner ear disorders, neurological conditions, and certain medications can affect balance and eye movement in ways that mimic intoxication.
• Fatigue or anxiety: Nervousness during a traffic stop or physical exhaustion can make coordination tasks more difficult, even for a sober person.
• Road and weather conditions: Poor lighting, uneven pavement, or inclement weather can affect a driver’s ability to perform roadside tests accurately.
• Officer subjectivity: Unlike a breathalyzer, field sobriety tests rely heavily on the officer’s interpretation. There is significant room for human error in how results are evaluated.

If you did perform a field sobriety test, our DUI attorneys will review the circumstances under which it was administered and gather evidence that may call the results into question.

Does Refusing a Field Sobriety Test Get Me Off the Hook for a DUI?

You do have the right to refuse a field sobriety test in Tennessee with no legal penalties. However, the officer does not have an obligation to notify you of this right. Refusing a field sobriety test does not mean that the officer will let you go on your way. You may be asked to take a breath or blood test, which you must comply with under state law. If other evidence suggests that you are likely drunk, you may be arrested and charged with a DUI. Thankfully, our experienced Nashville DUI attorneys are prepared to advocate on your behalf to get the charges against you dismissed or reduced.

Speak with Our Nashville DUI Lawyers Today

While failing a roadside coordination test may only further establish probable cause for your arrest, refusing to participate will not get you off the hook. If the police officer has probable cause to believe you are drunk, you will be forced to comply with a breath or blood test. Refusing to do so will result in a license suspension of one year, along with other legal consequences. If you would like to discuss DUI charges, our Nashville DUI attorneys are available to speak with you.

To schedule a free consultation, contact Andrew C. Beasley, PLLC, online or by calling (615) 846-9889 today.