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Being injured in an accident is a harrowing experience, but it becomes significantly more complex when the driver who caused the accident passes a field sobriety test.
Breaking Down Field Sobriety Tests
Field sobriety tests are not foolproof. They are designed to measure physical and cognitive impairment due to alcohol or drugs, but they are far from perfect. These tests involve a series of tasks that assess balance, coordination, and the ability to follow directions, such as standing on one leg, walking in a straight line, and following a moving object with the eyes. However, passing these tests does not necessarily mean the driver was not impaired at the time of the accident.
Notably, sobriety tests do not provide a comprehensive picture of a driver's impairment level. Factors like age, medical conditions, nervousness, and even footwear can affect performance on these tests. Moreover, these tests cannot detect all types of impairments, such as those caused by certain prescription medications or fatigue.
The law recognizes these limitations. Therefore, even if a driver passes a field sobriety test, victims can still pursue legal action if they believe the driver was impaired and that this impairment contributed to the accident.
Building Your Case
In order to build a strong case, it's important to gather as much evidence as possible. This includes photographs of the accident scene, medical records, witness testimonies, and any other relevant information.
Furthermore, remember that proving negligence is critical in personal injury cases. Even without a failed sobriety test, you may still have a valid claim if you can demonstrate that the driver was acting negligently - such as speeding, texting while driving, or violating traffic laws.
Finally, it's crucial to act promptly. Most states have a statute of limitations for personal injury claims, which means you only have a certain amount of time to file a lawsuit after the accident. You could lose your right to seek compensation entirely if you miss this deadline.
Navigating the aftermath of an accident can be overwhelming, but you don't have to do it alone. If you've been injured by an impaired driver who passed a field sobriety test, our law firm is here to help. Our experienced team of personal injury lawyers is ready to guide you through every step of the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Let Mike Slocumb Law Firm Be There For You
In conclusion, passing a field sobriety test does not absolve a driver from responsibility if they cause an accident while impaired. If you are in this situation, don't hesitate to seek legal counsel. Reach out to Mike Slocumb Law Firm with any questions or concerns. Your safety and well-being are our top priority.
Remember, you have rights, and we're here to uphold them.