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This week we have been discussing the validity of one of the field sobriety tests police officers use - horizontal gaze nystagmus test, the twitching movement of the eyeball when people look left, right, up, or down. Concerns exist as to its accuracy. One of the reasons it is not considered a foolproof sobriety test is that there are literally dozens of medications and medical conditions that can cause nystagmus. Besides drug or alcohol intoxication, any one of these additional conditions can cause nystagmus:
- Head injury
- Influenza
- Strep throat
- Vertigo
- Measles
- Inner ear disorders
- Syphilis
- Arteriosclerosis
- Muscular dystrophy
- Labyrinthitis
- Multiple sclerosis
- Korsakoff’s Syndrome
- Brain hemorrhage
- Meniere's disease
- Epilepsy
- Hypertension
- Brain cancer
- Motion sickness
- Sunstroke
- Vitamin B12 deficiency
- Thiamine deficiency
- Eyestrain
- Mental illness
- Eye muscle fatigue
- Glaucoma
- Changes in atmospheric pressure
- Central nervous system disorders
- Sedatives
- Whipple’s disease
- Balance disorders
- Optic nerve issues
- Stroke
- Anti-seizure medication
- Caffeine
- Lithium
- Nicotine
- Aspirin
Unfortunately, when a police officer pulls over a driver and decides to conduct roadside sobriety tests, he or she has already likely made assumptions about the driver’s sobriety. If you fail a horizontal gaze nystagmus test for one of the above reasons (not associated with intoxication), the police officer will likely further assume your guilt.
Are you confused about the results of your horizontal gaze nystagmus test or other roadside sobriety tests? Have you been charged with a DUI and need legal representation? Georgia DUI attorney Scott Miller may be able to help. Call today to speak with a lawyer about your case: 770-408-1001. Your initial consultation is free.
