When is a field sobriety test typically administered?

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Field sobriety tests are roadside assessments used when an officer suspects a driver is impaired. They’re conducted during a traffic stop specifically when observable signs or behavior indicate possible impairment, and they follow standardized protocols to ensure consistency and reliability. These tests help establish probable cause for arrest and for moving on to chemical testing, rather than being used only if the driver asks for them or after the suspect leaves the scene.