What is the accuracy percentage for the Walk and Turn test?

The accuracy percentage for the Walk and Turn test is an essential statistic used in field sobriety testing. This test is widely recognized for its effectiveness in assessing a driver's level of impairment due to alcohol or drugs. Research has shown that the Walk and Turn test has an accuracy rate of approximately 79% when indicating a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08% or higher. This means that out of all the individuals tested, 79% of those who failed the Walk and Turn test were indeed above the legal limit for driving.

This high level of accuracy makes the test a valuable tool for law enforcement to evaluate potential impairment in a systematic manner. It involves a series of specific instructions and physical tasks, which assess balance, coordination, and the ability to follow directions—skills that can be impaired by alcohol consumption. The use of standardized procedures in administering this test enhances its reliability as a measure of impairment.