This test requires a hard, dry, level, non-slipping
surface with sufficient room for the suspect to complete
nine heel-to-toe steps. It should be administered
under relatively safe conditions. This test loses
some validity when conducted in certain wind/weather
conditions contrary to this criteria. The manual advises
that a straight line should be clearly visible on
the surface. Conditions must be such that the suspect
would be in no danger if he or she were to fall. The
subject and the officer's safety should be considered
at all times. If these conditions do not exist, the
manual advises that the suspects should be asked to
perform this test elsewhere or only the HGN test should
be used.
|