Do cops expect you to say the alphabet backwards?
While the ABC test is a real sobriety test that officers can utilize to determine a persons blood alcohol concentration, it is highly unlikely you will be required to recite the alphabet backwards; backwards-recital of the ABC’s is more of a myth than a reality for most.
Why do they ask you to say the alphabet backwards?
BUT, some officers may ask a person to recite the alphabet backwards or sing a song or describe something in detail as a way of evaluating the person’s non-verbal cues and demeanor while that person is thinking about something else.
Why is reciting the alphabet backwards a sobriety test?
But just because the backwards alphabet recital test is not endorsed by the NHTSA, doesn’t mean that law enforcement can’t use it. If the alphabet is used at all as a field sobriety test, the DUI suspect is usually asked to recite it forward without singing.
What do police look for in your eyes?
The HGN test involves the police officer having the driver follow a pen with his eyes. To conduct the test, the police officer is supposed to check the driver’s eyes to see that the pupils are of equal size and to see that the eye is able to track an object as it is moved side to side at eye level.
How can you tell if someone is sober?
Field Sobriety Tests are groups of three tests used by police to determine if a driver is impaired….Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus
- If jerking is distinct when the eye is at maximum deviation.
- If the angle of jerking onset is within 45 degrees.
- If the eye cannot follow the object smoothly.
Can police officers ask DUI suspects to say the alphabet backwards?
Some officers may have a DUI suspect begin reciting the alphabet beginning on an arbitrary letter such as “J.” Other officers may have the DUI suspect stop at an arbitrary letter. And some may have the DUI suspect say the alphabet backwards!
Will the police make me recite the alphabet backwards for field sobriety tests?
People ask me about field sobriety tests all of the time and one of the most common questions I get is, “Will the officer really make me recite the alphabet backwards?” The answer is that they can, but they probably won’t.
What does the alphabet test for DUI look like?
If the alphabet is used at all as a field sobriety test, the DUI suspect is usually asked to recite it forward without singing. A DUI suspect may also be asked to recite the alphabet forward, sometimes with their eyes closed. The officer will then look for the presence of impairment indicators.
What are the indicators of a dui dui?
These indicators include the following: Whether the DUI suspect improperly states the alphabet, whether the DUI suspect sways, opens their eyes, or needs to use his or her arms for balance. Since the alphabet test is not endorsed by the NHTSA, there are no set guidelines for which an officer can administer it.