Bellingham Field Sobriety Tests on the Water Attorneys
When a boat operator is pulled over on the water by a law enforcement official, they may be asked to submit to a field sobriety test while on the water. However, this puts this individual at a distinct disadvantage due to the effect of the movement of the water on that individual. Because of the general unreliability of these tests as evidence of intoxication, boat operators should remember that these tests are considered voluntary.
For a free consultation regarding your defense rights after a BUI arrest, contact the Bellingham field sobriety tests on the water lawyers of Cowan Kirk Gaston by calling 866-822-1230 today.
FSTs and BUI Arrests
A person may be arrested on the basis of their field sobriety test. However, these tests do not work in the same way as a roadway DUI field sobriety test. These sobriety tests are considered optional. Some of the following problems may occur during a FST that can make the results unreliable:
- Suspects are asked to complete a substantial battery of balance tests
- These field sobriety tests are not necessary reliable even on flat land
- Suspects are not given sufficient time to acclimate to their new setting when landing for more tests
These serious issues can result in test failures that make a boat operator appear more intoxicated than they really are which may lead to an arrest.
Contact Us
If you have been charged with a BUI because of a poorly administered field sobriety test on the water, we can help. For more information regarding your rights as a defendant, contact the Bellingham field sobriety tests on the water attorneys of Cowan Kirk Gaston at 866-822-1230 today.
