Using Gait Analysis and Medical History for DWI Defense

In reaching the decision to arrest an individual for DWI, an officer often relies upon physical roadside “testing” to assess the driver’s sobriety. Unsteadiness is among the most common indicators of impairment recounted by police officers. During the initial intake meeting with the client, a medical history should be obtained, inquiring as to whether any physiological factors affected behavior overall at the time of the arrest, but specifically, whether any injury pathology would have caused any problems in balancing. Consider having the client medically and physiologically evaluated by a podiatrist or orthopedic specialist who can offer an in-depth look into the client’s pattern of walking.