What is the purpose of a field sobriety test?

The purpose of a field sobriety test is to assess a driver's physical and cognitive abilities. These tests are designed to measure impairment and include tasks that require coordination, attention, and the ability to follow instructions. When a law enforcement officer suspects that a driver may be under the influence of alcohol or drugs, the field sobriety tests provide a systematic way to observe and evaluate the driver's abilities.

The tests can include activities such as walking in a straight line, standing on one leg, or following a moving object with their eyes. The results give officers a clearer indication of whether the driver is fit to operate a vehicle safely, which is crucial for ensuring road safety and making informed decisions about possible arrest or further testing.

In contrast, options that refer to checking the car's condition, determining traffic violations, or calculating blood alcohol concentration represent different aspects of traffic enforcement and safety but do not align with the specific function of field sobriety tests.