What is the main purpose of conducting SFSTs?

The main purpose of conducting Standardized Field Sobriety Tests (SFSTs) is to assess driving impairment due to alcohol or drugs. These tests are designed to measure an individual's ability to perform tasks that are critical for safe driving, such as balance, coordination, and the ability to follow instructions.

When law enforcement officers suspect that a driver may be impaired, SFSTs provide a structured method to evaluate the driver's physical and cognitive abilities, offering a clear indication of impairment rather than simply confirming whether the person is sober. This assessment is crucial because impairment can occur at levels well below the legal limit for blood alcohol concentration (BAC), and the tests are structured to identify these subtle signs of impairment.

While it can be tempting to think that SFSTs might definitively determine sobriety or directly estimate BAC, their primary function centers on observing driving-related skills that may be compromised. Thus, they play a vital role in establishing whether further action is warranted, such as a breath or blood test to quantify BAC. This focus on assessing impairment is essential for ensuring road safety and making informed decisions in potential DUI cases.