What are potential consequences of failing an SFST in a DUI stop?

Failing a Standardized Field Sobriety Test (SFST) during a DUI stop has significant legal implications, and one of the primary consequences is the possibility of arrest for DUI and additional charges. When an individual does not perform satisfactorily on these tests, which are designed to objectively measure impairment, law enforcement officers will likely interpret the failure as evidence of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. This can lead to the officer making an arrest based on the observed signs of impairment, which may include poor performance on the tests, erratic behavior, or other indicators of intoxication.

The arrest often comes with the potential for further charges, depending on the circumstances, such as public intoxication or charges related to reckless driving. This establishes a clear link between the failure of the SFST and the escalated legal actions taken by law enforcement.

While community service requirements, mandatory alcohol education programs, and automatic license suspensions can be potential outcomes following a DUI conviction, they typically come after the initial arrest and subsequent legal proceedings. Thus, the direct consequence of failing an SFST at the scene is primarily the arrest and additional charges.