What can lead to false positive results in SFST?

The possibility of false positive results in Standardized Field Sobriety Tests can indeed arise from various factors, but one significant reason is the presence of medical conditions or physical disabilities. Certain medical issues, such as inner ear disorders or neurological conditions, can affect a person’s balance and coordination. This can lead to misinterpretation of SFST results, as the standardized tasks are designed primarily for individuals without such medical conditions.

In addition, physical disabilities can impair a subject's ability to perform the tests accurately. For instance, a person with a leg injury may struggle with maintaining balance or following instructions, which may falsely suggest impairment due to alcohol or drugs when in fact their ability to perform the tasks is hindered by their medical status.

Understanding this context is crucial, as it highlights the importance of considering an individual's medical and physical background when interpreting the results of these sobriety tests.