The increasing prevalence of drunk driving on Guyana’s roadways is a matter of grave concern, posing significant risks to both motorists and pedestrians. In response to this growing threat, Home Affairs Minister Robeson Benn has called for the implementation of field sobriety tests (FSTs) by the Guyana Police Force (GPF) as a supplementary measure to the breathalyzer test. This move, aimed at strengthening law enforcement’s ability to detect and deter impaired driving, is a step in the right direction towards ensuring greater road safety and accountability.
Drunk driving remains one of the leading causes of fatal accidents, not only in Guyana but globally. Despite existing laws and enforcement mechanisms, the country continues to witness tragic incidents caused by reckless and impaired drivers. Currently, when a traffic officer suspects a driver of being under the influence of alcohol, a breathalyzer test is administered. However, as Minister Benn rightfully pointed out, reliance on breathalyzer devices alone is problematic, as legal challenges often arise concerning the calibration and accuracy of these instruments. In many instances, well-resourced individuals have exploited these loopholes to evade justice, undermining the efforts of law enforcement and endangering public safety.
The introduction of FSTs is a practical measure that brings Guyana in line with international best practices in combating impaired driving. FSTs consist of standardized mental and physical tests, including the walk-and-turn, one-leg stand, and horizontal gaze nystagmus tests, which help officers determine whether a driver is intoxicated. These tests provide immediate, observable indicators of impairment, making it harder for individuals to contest their state of inebriation in court. Unlike breathalyzers, which require meticulous calibration, FSTs rely on direct human observation and can serve as valuable corroborative evidence in legal proceedings.
Minister Benn’s stance on the matter is laudable. His assertion that “Smart Alex” individuals with financial resources and legal representation have found ways to exploit loopholes in breathalyzer testing highlights a systemic weakness in enforcement. By integrating FSTs into routine traffic stops, the GPF can ensure that officers have multiple tools at their disposal to assess impairment effectively. This multi-faceted approach enhances credibility, reduces reliance on technology alone, and strengthens the overall legal framework against drunk driving.
However, for FSTs to be effective, certain critical steps must be taken. First and foremost, police officers must be adequately trained in administering these tests. The effectiveness of FSTs depends on precision, consistency, and adherence to standardized procedures. If officers are not well-trained, the results of these tests could be challenged in court, rendering them ineffective. The government should therefore invest in comprehensive training programs, ensuring that officers across the country are proficient in conducting and interpreting FSTs.
Additionally, legislative support is necessary to validate the use of FSTs in Guyana’s legal system. While these tests are widely used in many countries, their acceptance as admissible evidence in local courts must be clearly established. Lawmakers should consider amending relevant traffic laws to explicitly recognize FSTs as a legitimate means of assessing impairment. This legal backing will prevent unnecessary disputes and reinforce the authority of law enforcement officers in the execution of their duties.
Public awareness and education must also accompany this policy shift. Many drivers may not be familiar with FSTs or may view them as an unfair means of assessment. A nationwide awareness campaign should be launched to inform citizens about the dangers of drunk driving, the importance of FSTs, and the legal consequences of impaired driving. By fostering a culture of accountability and responsibility, society as a whole can contribute to reducing the incidence of drunk driving.
Moreover, while the implementation of FSTs is a significant step, it should not be seen as a standalone solution. In the broader scheme of things, road safety is a shared responsibility.
