What is the primary purpose of conducting field sobriety tests?

The primary purpose of conducting field sobriety tests is to assess the driver's level of impairment. These tests are designed to give law enforcement officers observable evidence of a driver's ability to operate a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs. They are based on typical indicators of impairment such as coordination, balance, and cognitive function.

By evaluating a driver's performance on these tests, officers can gather critical information to make informed decisions about whether a driver is fit to drive or if they should be arrested for driving while intoxicated (DWI). This focus on impairment is essential for maintaining road safety and enforcing laws against impaired driving.