The One Leg Stand Test

Interviewer: What is the one leg stand test?

Michael Kramer: The individual is asked to stand with his feet together, to raise one foot. The motorist looks at the foot as he raises it at least six inches off the ground and to count to 30, using the one one-thousand, two one-thousand, three one- thousand method of counting. It’s supposed last for approximately 30 seconds.

The individual is not allowed to raise his hands for balance and he’s supposed to keep his hands at his side. If an individual loses his balance or puts his foot down or uses something to maintain his balance then he’s failed the test.

Interviewer: Do you think there’s any sort of miscommunication on part of the officer where I’ve heard of stories where an officer will give them the instructions but say you can put your leg down if you want.

Michael Kramer: For the average person who has not practiced them, these tests are hard enough even if the instructions are followed 100% It is really not necessary for the officer to stack the test.

On the side of the road when you know an arrest depends on it, I defy anyone to do three of these tests