Medical Conditions Mistaken For Intoxication

Diabetes

Diabetic episodes can sometimes closely resemble intoxication.

Both:

• low blood sugar (hypoglycemia),
  and
• high blood sugar (hyperglycemia)
  may cause symptoms such as:
• confusion,
• dizziness,
• slurred speech,
• fatigue,
• disorientation,
• sweating,
• and balance problems.

In some situations, diabetic emergencies may even produce fruity breath odors that officers incorrectly associate with alcohol consumption.

Fatigue and Sleep Deprivation

Extreme fatigue can significantly affect:

• coordination,
• speech,
• reaction time,
• and mental clarity.

A tired driver may:

• appear confused,
• have bloodshot eyes,
• respond slowly,
• or struggle with balance and divided-attention tasks.

These symptoms may become especially problematic during late-night DUI investigations when officers already suspect intoxication.

Neurological Conditions

Neurological disorders may affect:

• balance,
• speech,
• coordination,
• eye movement,
• and motor control.

Potential conditions may include:

• multiple sclerosis,
• Parkinson’s disease,
• seizure disorders,
• traumatic brain injuries,
• stroke-related impairments,
• or vestibular disorders.

Some neurological conditions may also affect performance on field sobriety tests.

Anxiety and Panic Responses During DUI Stops

Many people become extremely nervous during roadside DUI investigations.

Stress and anxiety may cause:

• shaking,
• rapid speech,
• confusion,
• difficulty concentrating,
• poor divided-attention performance,
• or difficulty following instructions.

Field sobriety tests are already stressful under normal circumstances. Performing them:

• late at night,
• beside traffic,
• with flashing emergency lights nearby,
• while being investigated by armed police officers,
  can substantially increase anxiety-related performance problems.

Physical Injuries and Mobility Issues

Many field sobriety tests require:

• balance,
• coordination,
• leg strength,
• and divided attention.

Prior injuries or physical limitations may affect performance completely unrelated to intoxication.

Potential issues may involve:

• knee injuries,
• back injuries,
• ankle problems,
• hip conditions,
• arthritis,
• obesity,
• chronic pain,
• or mobility limitations.

Even relatively healthy individuals may struggle performing roadside balance exercises under stressful conditions.

Speech and Communication Disorders

Certain medical conditions or speech disorders may affect:

• speech clarity,
• cadence,
• response time,
• or communication style.

Officers may incorrectly interpret:

• delayed responses,
• confusion,
• or speech irregularities
  as signs of intoxication.

This issue may become even more complicated where:

• English is not the person’s first language,
• hearing impairments exist,
• or communication barriers affect the interaction.