Do You Have To Take a Field Sobriety Test in Tennessee?

 Posted on January 24, 2022 in DUI/DWI/BUI

If you have ever seen red and blue lights flashing in your rearview mirror, then you are already familiar with the fear and nervousness that being pulled over on the road can invoke. It is never fun to realize that you are being pulled over by the police

If you know that you had been drinking prior to getting in the car and driving on the road, then you probably have a sinking feeling in your stomach that you are being pulled over under the suspicion of driving while intoxicated

Even so, do you have to tell the police that there is alcohol in your system? And must you participate in a field sobriety test simply because you are asked to step out of your vehicle and consent to the testing? The answers to these questions are important to know in case you find yourself in a situation where you are asked to take the field sobriety test in Tennessee

What is a Field Sobriety Test? 

A field sobriety test is a series of actions that test a driver for intoxication. While the most popularized field sobriety test is the one in which people are asked to walk in a straight line, there are actually three tests that police officers conduct during a field sobriety test

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has approved three separate activities as part of the trio of field sobriety tests. These are the tests that may be involved in a field sobriety test: 

• One-leg stand test 

• Horizontal gaze nystagmus test 

• Walk-and-turn test 

What Happens If You Refuse a Tennessee Field Sobriety Test? 

The answer to the question, "Can I refuse a field sobriety test?" is yes, in most cases, you are entitled to the right to refuse a field sobriety test. In Tennessee, field sobriety tests are voluntary, so you have every right to refuse to partake in them

However, from there, a police officer may ask you to take a breathalyzer test. You may still be arrested and charged with drunk driving even if you avoid the field sobriety test

What Are My Other Legal Rights When Pulled Over For a DUI?

Above all, you have the right to an attorney. It is highly recommended that people who are suspected of driving under the influence or driving while intoxicated contact a lawyer as soon as possible

Charges for driving under the influence (DUI) can lead to significant consequences. A criminal defense lawyer can advise you of your rights moving forward. To gain a complete understanding of your legal rights after refusing a field sobriety test, request legal counsel instead of answering any questions from law enforcement.

Contact a Knoxville, TN Defense Lawyer Today

For a Knox County criminal defense attorney who will advocate for you and give your case his all, reach out to Jeffrey Coller, Knoxville Criminal Defense Attorney. By calling 865-281-1000, you can schedule a free consultation with reputable and dedicated Knoxville criminal defense attorney Jeffrey Coller

Source: 

https://www.tn.gov/safety/publicsafety/duioutline.html