In the context of the Standardized Field Sobriety Test, what does impaired balance suggest?

Impaired balance during the Standardized Field Sobriety Test is a significant indicator of possible impairment due to substance use. This is because substances such as alcohol, certain drugs, or even a combination of these can affect motor skills, coordination, and cognitive functioning, all of which play a critical role in maintaining balance. When a person's balance is compromised, it can suggest that their ability to process sensory information and respond accordingly has been disrupted, which is often linked to impairment resulting from substances.

While other factors like medical issues, stress, or fatigue could potentially affect balance, they are not as directly associated with the observed behaviors during the SFST. The primary focus of the test is to determine if an individual's impairment is consistent with substance influence, making the link between impaired balance and possible impairment due to substance use particularly relevant in this context.