What Are Field Sobriety Tests?

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What Are Field Sobriety Tests?

Field sobriety tests, "FSTs", are ways in which the police officer can establish probable cause to arrest you and offer an approved test. You must take every approved blood, breath or urine test offered to you within a 3 hour period after you were operating a vehicle in order to comply with the Indiana Implied Consent Law, but you are not required to take any field sobriety tests. Respectfully decline to take any field sobriety tests, including the PBT (portable or preliminary breath test). If in doubt, ask the officer whether the test is one required by the implied consent law. Be very careful; because FSTs are not "testimonial", they are not considered selfincriminating, and can be used against you even if you are not given the Miranda warning.

Other Indiana Drunk Driving Defense FAQs

Q: What Is "Dui"?
A: "DUI" is short for Driving Under the Influence. It is shorthand that most people understand, but strictly speaking "DUI" is not a crime in the State of Indiana. "OWI", … More
Q: So What's The Difference?
A: Basically, OWI does not require proof of driving, but rather being in actual physical control of a vehicle. This can happen where a driver is asleep at the wheel with … More
Q: What Are The Penalties?
A: This varies depending upon the class of misdemeanor or felony charged. Maximum fines range from $500.00 to $10,000.00, maximum imprisonment from 60 days to 8 years. … More
Q: What Is "Htv"?
A: "HTV" stands for Habitual Traffic Violator, which is what the Bureau of Motor Vehicles designates persons who accumulate several convictions of major traffic offenses, … More
Q: What Is "Post-Conviction Relief"?
A: "PostConviction Relief" or "PCR" is a legal remedy whereby a prior conviction can be set aside and you can get a new lease on life. In the traffic law context, it … More
Q: Can I Fight The Breath Test?
A: Breath testing is inherently inaccurate, because it is based on the ridiculous assumption that every person metabolizes alcohol and expels it into his breath at the … More
Q: Should I Make A Statement To A Police Officer When I Am Stopped?
A: Never! All the officer needs to know is on your license and registration. Aside from the basic information required to establish your identity or fill out an accident … More
Q: What Are The Speed Limits In Indiana?
A: Unless Otherwise Posted Absolute Interstate 65 mph Ltd Access Rds 55 mph Other Primary Rds 55 mph Residential 30 mph More
Q: How Are Speed Limits Enforced?
A: Enforced through use of: Pacing Yes Radar Yes Vascar Yes Photo Radar No Aircraft Yes Laser No More
Q: How Can Tickets Be Paid?
A: Tickets can be paid by mail or in person.