What type of distractions should be minimized when conducting the SFST?

Minimizing distractions is crucial during the administration of Standardized Field Sobriety Tests (SFST) to ensure accurate assessments of a subject's impairment. Visual and auditory distractions can significantly interfere with the test performance by diverting the subject's attention away from the instructions and the tasks they are required to complete.

Visual distractions might include busy surroundings, sudden movements, or bystanders. Such stimuli can lead to confusion or increased difficulty in concentrating on the tasks of the tests. Auditory distractions can also pose problems, such as noise from traffic, conversations nearby, or other disturbances that may hinder a subject's ability to hear and follow verbal instructions clearly.

By minimizing both visual and auditory distractions, law enforcement personnel can create an environment more conducive to evaluating the subject’s abilities accurately. This helps in reducing the potential for false indications of impairment due to external factors, thereby leading to more reliable results in assessing whether a driver is under the influence.