The Breathalyzer test is not part of the SFST. SFST consists of three tests: Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus (HGN), Walk-and-Turn (WAT), and One-Leg Stand (OLS), which assess physical coordination and impairment due to alcohol.
The HGN test evaluates involuntary jerking of the eyes, which can be more pronounced in individuals under the influence of alcohol or certain drugs. It is a key indicator of impairment.
The WAT test is designed to evaluate a person’s physical coordination, balance, and ability to follow multi-step instructions, which can be affected by alcohol impairment.
During the OLS test, individuals who are impaired often struggle to maintain their balance while standing on one leg. This is one of the indicators used to assess alcohol impairment.
Environmental factors such as weather conditions, uneven ground, and poor lighting can affect the subject’s ability to perform the tests accurately, leading to less reliable results. These factors should be considered when administering SFSTs.
