What is the official field sobriety test used in Kentucky?

The Standardized Field Sobriety Test (SFST) is the official field sobriety test used in Kentucky. This set of tests was developed to provide law enforcement officers with a reliable method for assessing whether a driver is impaired due to alcohol or drugs. The SFST is based on research conducted to ensure the tests are valid and can be consistently applied across different situations and individuals.

The SFST consists of three main components: the Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus (HGN) test, the Walk-and-Turn test, and the One-Leg Stand test. These tests are designed to evaluate a suspect's physical and cognitive abilities, which can be affected by intoxication. Their standardized nature helps ensure that the results are admissible in court and provide a clear indication of impairment.

Options like the Enhanced Field Sobriety Test or the Comprehensive Field Sobriety Test may imply variations or additional tests, but they do not represent the officially recognized and empirically validated method used by law enforcement in Kentucky. The Observational Field Sobriety Test lacks the stringent criteria and standardized procedures necessary for reliable assessment. Thus, the SFST serves as the cornerstone for assessing DUI-related impairments effectively.