What is a common mistake subjects make during the One-Leg Stand test?

During the One-Leg Stand test, a common mistake that subjects often make is raising their arms or swaying while attempting to maintain balance. This behavior is indicative of difficulty in physical coordination, which can be a telltale sign of impairment. The test requires the subject to balance on one leg and hold the other leg approximately six inches off the ground, with their arms at their sides. If the subject raises their arms or sways, it suggests that they are struggling to maintain stability, which is a critical aspect of the evaluation.

In this context, following instructions closely is crucial for accurately assessing the individual’s coordination and balance. While raising arms and swaying are clear indicators of impairment, behaviors like changing feet constantly or looking away from the officer do not represent the same level of direct difficulty with balance. Mistakes such as these can show distraction or misunderstanding of the instructions given, but do not reveal as much about the subject’s physical coordination as swaying or raising arms does. Therefore, the most significant mistake related to the One-Leg Stand test outcomes is indeed the act of raising arms or swaying, as it directly impacts the test results and the assessment of potential impairment.