How Our SFST-trained Lawyers Perform Cross-Examinations to Challenge DUI Charges
If you’re charged with a DUI in Pennsylvania, your consequences will depend on certain circumstances-
- Whether anyone was hurt.
- Whether you have any prior DUI convictions on your record.
- Your level of impairment is reflected through BAC levels, which are determined via a DUI test.
But, there’s one catch here. The accuracy and reliability of these tests are still questionable! So, chances are that the displayed results might be false positives, or the cops might not have followed the standard protocols while administering them, which eventually might result in a wrongful arrest!
Therefore, if you face a DUI charge, stop panicking and seek counsel from a Pittsburgh DUI attorney from our Logue Law Group immediately. We have SFST-certified lawyers who can effectively challenge the DUI tests and help to reduce or dismiss the charges against you.
Types of SFSTs to Determine Impairment
There are different types of tests that the cops use to check the level of impairment of a driver. However, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) approves of the following three tests to gauge the impairment of a driver-
- Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus (HGN)
- Walk-and-Turn
- One-Leg Stand
Now, you might think, why are these three tests standardized by the NHTSA when there are several other ways to determine the impairment levels of a driver? Well, the cops have to follow stringent guidelines for administering these tests. However, the infallibility factor persists!
And that’s where our SFST-trained Pittsburgh DUI attorneys come in to save the day. They are aware of how wrongful administration of these tests might lead to erroneous results, and therefore, can challenge the validity through cross-examination, which can ultimately lead to a dismissal or reduction of your charges!
How Do We Cross-Examine SFSTs?
Let’s take the Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus (HGN) test as an instance.
So, to get accurate results, the stimulus must ideally be about 12- 15 inches away from the suspect’s face. Maintaining this distance is mandatory, as it helps the cops to check the eye movements of the suspect. Not just that, but the stimulus should be held a little above the eyes, and it should only be moved at certain times during the test. Failing to comply with any of these protocols can produce erroneous results, leading to a false arrest.
Our SFST-certified Pittsburgh DUI attorneys have a thorough knowledge of this. Therefore, they can accurately highlight the protocols and challenge the accuracy of the tests, or the credibility of the administering officer, to weaken the prosecution’s statements.
Also, despite correct administrations of the DUI tests, the results can still be faulty because of certain environmental factors. For instance, SFSTs should ideally be performed on flat ground and on a well-lit surface.
But, in real life, cops often conduct these tests under adverse circumstances, like-
- Uneven roads.
- Poorly-lit areas.
- In inclement weather.
Each of these adverse conditions might impact a person’s balance, coordination, and concentration, and make them appear impaired!
Our Pittsburgh DUI attorneys will make sure to highlight these factors during the cross-examination and extract the most favorable outcome for you! So, even if your test results have come out to be positive, stay calm, and exercise your right to call a lawyer right away. Dial 412-387-6901 or send an email to sean@seanloguelaw.com to book a free consultation with our experts today!