Reader’s Question:

I heard that the Rhomberg balance test is used by police officers in Houston, Texas if they suspect that a driver is under the influence. How is this test being done and is this an accurate indicator of impairment?

Eden

Houston, TX

The Rhomberg balance test is an instrument used by police officers in Houston, Texas on drivers whom they suspect of DUI. But this test is considered to be designed for failure and the only purpose is to give the officer probable cause for the DUI arrest and evidence to support a drunk driving court case. The Rhomberg balance test is a non-standardized test which means that it is not recognized by the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA). The result of this test holds less weight in court because the NHTSA has not found it to be an accurate indicator of physical and mental impairment.

During the Rhomberg balance test, the motorist is told to stand with his/her feet together, with head tilted back and eyes closed. He/she should estimate the passage of 30 seconds, then tilt the head forward, open his or her eyes, and say “stop.” If he/she overestimates a period of 30 seconds by counting too slowly, the officer would likely conclude that the driver is under the influence of alcohol. If he/she underestimates 30-second period by counting too quickly, the officer could conclude that the driver is under the influence of stimulants.

Tags: DUI, DUI arrest, DUI lawyer, field sobriety tests