how many clues to fail walk and turn

2 min read 18-01-2025

The Walk and Turn (WAT) is a common field sobriety test (FST) used by law enforcement to assess a driver's level of impairment. It's designed to detect signs of intoxication through balance, coordination, and the ability to follow instructions. But how many mistakes will cause you to fail? Let's explore.

Understanding the Walk and Turn Test

The WAT test involves two parts: instructions and the walking itself. Officers will first provide a detailed set of instructions. They'll then instruct the individual to walk a straight line, heel-to-toe, for a certain distance. Throughout the process, officers observe for various clues of impairment.

Instructions Stage Clues

Even before the walking begins, an officer can observe clues during the instruction phase. These include:

Unable to maintain balance during instructions: This is a clear indicator of potential impairment.
Starts before instructions are completed: Demonstrates difficulty following directions, a potential sign of intoxication.
Loses balance during instructions: Suggests a lack of coordination.
Needs to be told instructions more than once: Indicates difficulty comprehending instructions due to possible intoxication.
Asks for clarification multiple times: Similar to needing repeated instructions, showing difficulty with comprehension.

Walking Stage Clues

Once the instructions are finished and the walking portion begins, officers look for additional clues:

Starts too soon: This shows impatience and difficulty in following simple instructions.
Stops walking while performing test: Demonstrates an inability to complete the test.
Does not touch heel-to-toe: Improper foot placement is a significant indicator of impairment.
Steps off the line: Demonstrates difficulty maintaining balance and following the instructions.
Uses arms for balance: Using arms suggests a lack of balance and coordination.
Improper turn: Failure to perform the turn correctly according to the instructions is significant.
Wrong number of steps: Missing or taking extra steps can demonstrate impairment.
Stumbles: Loss of balance shows impaired coordination.
Misses heel-to-toe: Demonstrates a lack of balance and coordination.

How Many Clues Mean Failure?

There's no magic number of clues that automatically results in a failed Walk and Turn test. The number of clues observed is just one factor. The officer will consider the totality of circumstances. This includes the individual's overall demeanor, the officer's experience, and other observations made during the traffic stop. Some officers may consider a certain number of clues to be indicative of impairment, but it's not a standardized cut-off point.

Important Considerations

Officer Bias: It's crucial to remember that there's potential for human error and bias in the administration and interpretation of FSTs.
Medical Conditions: Pre-existing medical conditions, injuries, or even physical limitations can negatively impact performance.
Environmental Factors: Uneven surfaces, poor lighting, or other environmental factors could potentially affect a person's performance.

What to Do if You're Stopped

If you are stopped and asked to perform the Walk and Turn test, it's crucial to:

Politely decline: While you don't have to perform the test, your refusal can be used against you.
Explain any medical conditions: If a medical condition will affect your performance, inform the officer.
Cooperate professionally: Maintain a calm demeanor, and follow instructions as best you can.
Document the event: If possible, take notes of everything that happens.
Seek legal counsel: Consult with an attorney if you have been arrested for DUI.

The Walk and Turn is just one piece of the puzzle in a DUI investigation. The number of clues observed is not the sole determinant of failure; it's a factor among many considered by law enforcement. Understanding the test and its limitations is important for anyone who might be subjected to it.