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

The primary purpose of Standardized Field Sobriety Tests (SFSTs) is to assess a subject's impairment related to driving. These tests are structured evaluations designed to provide law enforcement officers with observable indicators of a person's level of impairment, particularly due to alcohol or drugs. SFSTs typically include tasks that measure balance, coordination, and cognitive function, which are essential for safe driving.

By administering these tests, officers can gather evidence that helps them determine whether a person is unfit to operate a vehicle. The performance on these tests is crucial in establishing probable cause for arrest and in making informed decisions about further testing, such as a breathalyzer. This use of SFSTs directly relates to ensuring road safety and addressing impaired driving behavior.

In contrast, determining the exact alcohol level in a subject's blood is often achieved through breath or blood tests rather than SFSTs. Gathering general statistics about DUI incidents serves a different purpose, focusing on public health and safety trends rather than individual assessments. Lastly, while discouraging potential offenders can be a secondary benefit of the testing process, it is not the primary aim of SFSTs.