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One Leg Stand Test
The One Leg Stand Test also has been validated through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s research program. It consists of two stages:
- Instructural Stage
In the instruction stage, you must stand with your feet together, arms at side, and listen to instructions.
- Balance and Counting Stage
In the balance and counting stage, you must raise one leg, either leg, approximately six inches off the ground, toes pointed out, keeping both legs straight. While looking at the elevated foot, count out loud in the following manner: “ one thousand and one”, “one thousand and two”, “one thousand and three” until told to stop. This divides your attention between balancing (standing on one foot) and small muscle control (counting out loud).
The timing for a thirty second period by the officer is an important part of the One Leg Stand Test.
The One Leg Stand Test is administered and interpreted in a standardized manner. The officer carefully observes your performance and looks for four specific clues:
- Sways While Balancing;
- Uses Arms to Balance;
- Hops;
- Puts Foot Down
The inability to complete the One Leg Stand Test occurs when you:
- Put Your Foot Down Three or More Times; or
- Cannot do the Test
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