Texas Walk and Turn Test

Have you recently been pulled over on suspicion of driving while intoxicated in Austin, TX? If so, you were probably asked to perform a few simple tests by the police officer. These tests, used to determine sobriety, can range from walking in a straight line to standing on one leg.

There are three standardized field sobriety tests that are used by Texas law enforcement agents to determine whether a DWI arrest can be made. Of the three tests, the walk and turn test is what most people think of when they picture a field sobriety test.

The walk and turn test is what’s known as a “divided attention” test. It is designed to test your physical and cognitive abilities.

To perform the test, you will be asked to take nine heel-to-toe steps, pivot, then take nine heel-to-toe steps back, all while counting your steps out loud. The officer is watching to see if you can keep your balance, walk heel to toe, and take the correct number of steps.

To administer the test properly, the officer must give clear instructions and demonstrate the test. The driver must then acknowledge that he or she understands the police officer’s instructions—a language barrier could lead to mistakes on the test.

There are several factors besides intoxication that can lead to failing the walk and turn test. Obesity, advanced age, or any physical conditions that affect balance will make it difficult to pass the test. Wearing awkward shoes or having limited sight in one eye will also lead to poor test performance.

In the scientific community, field sobriety tests, including the walk and turn test, are not an accepted method of determining intoxication. After all, this is an entirely subjective test that the police officer is grading.

If you have recently been arrested in Austin after failing the walk and turn test, it is crucial that you contact an attorney as soon as possible. There are many defenses against field sobriety tests that your attorney can make.

Ken Gibson is an experienced DWI defense attorney in the Austin area. To discuss your case and receive a free, no-obligation case evaluation, contact Attorney Gibson today.