What do field sobriety tests in Connecticut include?

A field sobriety test (FST) is a series of physical and cognitive tests used by law enforcement officers to determine whether a driver is under the influence of drugs or alcohol. In Connecticut, the FST can include the Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus test, the Walk-and-Turn test, and the One-Leg Stand test, among others.

Are field sobriety tests mandatory in Connecticut?

Field sobriety tests are not mandatory in Connecticut, and drivers have the right to refuse to take them. However, refusing to take a field sobriety test may be used as evidence against the driver in court.

What is a breathalyzer test?

A breathalyzer test is a chemical test used to determine a driver's blood alcohol concentration (BAC) by measuring the amount of alcohol in their breath. In Connecticut, a BAC of 0.08% or higher is considered legal intoxication.

Can I refuse to take a breathalyzer test in Connecticut?

Connecticut has an implied consent law, which means that by driving on Connecticut roads, you have already given your consent to take a breathalyzer test if a law enforcement officer has probable cause to suspect you are driving under the influence. Refusing to take a breathalyzer test can result in the suspension of your driver's license.

What are the consequences of failing a field sobriety or breathalyzer test in Connecticut?

Failing a field sobriety or breathalyzer test can lead to a DUI charge in Connecticut. The consequences of a DUI conviction can include fines, jail time, license suspension, and mandatory participation in an alcohol education program. The severity of the consequences depends on the circumstances of the arrest and the driver's previous DUI history.

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Field and BAC Tests

DUI Field and BAC Testing Lawyers in CT

BAC, Field Testing For DUI Tests in Avon and New London, CT

After you have been pulled over for suspicion of a DUI, a police officer can ask you to take various tests. Although these tests are not always accurate, the results of these tests can determine whether you will be arrested for a DUI and charged with this crime. That is why if you have been arrested or charged with a DUI, you need to reach out to the Law Offices of Pat Brown. Our legal team is here to look into these test results and put together a comprehensive and compelling case on your behalf.

What Are Field and BAC Tests?

In Connecticut, field tests and Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) tests are standardized methods used by the authorities and law enforcement to determine whether there is probable cause to arrest an individual for a DUI. Generally, the three types of field tests used in the state include the one-leg stand, the walk-and-turn, and the horizontal gaze nystagmus.

The Fields and BAC Test Process

If a police officer suspects you have been drinking and driving in Connecticut, you will be asked to submit to one of these tests. Typically, the chemical BAC test will be the most significant piece of evidence against you in a DUI case. If the test results reveal an elevated BAC of .08% or higher, you are at risk of getting jail time, probation, significant fines, community service, and license suspensions.

The Law Offices of Pat Brown Can Help

Attorney Pat Brown founded the Law Offices of Pat Brown to provide criminal defense representation and defend individuals accused of both federal and state crimes across Connecticut. After his years of working as a former prosecutor, federal public defender, and military lawyer, Attorney Pat Brown has the knowledge and skills needed to take on even the most complicated of cases.

Reach Out To Experienced Legal Counsel in Connecticut Today

At the Law Offices of Pat Brown, we know that field and BAC tests do not tell the whole story. We also know that making a mistake on one of these tests does not automatically mean that you were driving under the influence. That is why if you have had issues with one of these tests, you shouldn't hesitate to seek legal help. Reach out to our firm today for a free case consultation.

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For more information call us at (860) 321-7722 or click the button below to contact us online.

Our DUI Services

For more information about field and BAC tests or to schedule a free consultation, call us at (860) 321-7722 or visit our contact page.

Frequently Asked Questions

What do field sobriety tests in Connecticut include?

A field sobriety test (FST) is a series of physical and cognitive tests used by law enforcement officers to determine whether a driver is under the influence of drugs or alcohol. In Connecticut, the FST can include the Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus test, the Walk-and-Turn test, and the One-Leg Stand test, among others.
Are field sobriety tests mandatory in Connecticut?

Field sobriety tests are not mandatory in Connecticut, and drivers have the right to refuse to take them. However, refusing to take a field sobriety test may be used as evidence against the driver in court.
What is a breathalyzer test?

A breathalyzer test is a chemical test used to determine a driver's blood alcohol concentration (BAC) by measuring the amount of alcohol in their breath. In Connecticut, a BAC of 0.08% or higher is considered legal intoxication.
Can I refuse to take a breathalyzer test in Connecticut?

Connecticut has an implied consent law, which means that by driving on Connecticut roads, you have already given your consent to take a breathalyzer test if a law enforcement officer has probable cause to suspect you are driving under the influence. Refusing to take a breathalyzer test can result in the suspension of your driver's license.
What are the consequences of failing a field sobriety or breathalyzer test in Connecticut?

Failing a field sobriety or breathalyzer test can lead to a DUI charge in Connecticut. The consequences of a DUI conviction can include fines, jail time, license suspension, and mandatory participation in an alcohol education program. The severity of the consequences depends on the circumstances of the arrest and the driver's previous DUI history.

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Can You Refuse a Breathalyzer in Connecticut?

August 24, 2022

Not every DUI stop ends with a breathalyzer test. A police officer may arrest you for DUI based on field sobriety tests such as the Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus Test or Finger-to-Nose Test. These, combined with erratic driving, slurred speech, and the smell of alcohol on your breath, may be enough proof for the arresting officer to document.

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