What does a subject’s inability to follow simple instructions suggest?

A subject's inability to follow simple instructions during a field sobriety test is a key indicator of possible impairment. This could indicate that the individual may be under the influence of alcohol or a controlled substance, which can affect cognitive functions such as attention, comprehension, and motor control. These impairments might result in difficulty processing the instructions given or in executing them accurately.

In the context of field sobriety tests, law enforcement is trained to observe behaviors that signal impairment. Difficulties in following instructions are a significant factor that officers mistake when assessing a driver's state. It reflects more than just a momentary lapse; it usually suggests that the individual is experiencing impairment that affects decision-making abilities.

While factors like confidence, focused attention, or rushed decision-making could potentially play a role in how someone interacts with the test, they do not carry the same weight as the clear link between failing to follow instructions and potential impairment. Thus, the observation of this behavior is a critically important element in the assessment of a subject's sobriety.