What is the primary purpose of the Standardized Field Sobriety Tests (SFSTs)?

The primary purpose of the Standardized Field Sobriety Tests (SFSTs) is to assess a person's level of impairment due to alcohol or drugs. This assessment is essential for law enforcement officers to make informed decisions regarding a driver's sobriety. SFSTs are designed to measure various indicators of impairment, including balance, coordination, and the ability to follow instructions, which are often affected by alcohol and other substances.

These tests are standardized, meaning they are conducted in a uniform manner to ensure consistency and reliability in the results. When officers observe the performance on these tests, they can gather evidence that supports the likelihood of impairment, which is crucial for legal proceedings and public safety.

While determining blood alcohol content is essential in DUI cases, it is typically done through chemical testing, not directly assessed through SFSTs. Similarly, gauging a driver's understanding of traffic laws or evaluating physical health does not align with the primary intent of performing SFSTs, as these areas would not provide direct evidence of impairment related to substance use.