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According to the San Diego study, what is the accuracy percentage of the Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus test?

  1. 88%

  2. 89%

  3. 79%

  4. 85%

The correct answer is: 88%

The Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus (HGN) test is a standardized field sobriety test commonly used to assess whether a driver is impaired by alcohol or drugs. According to the San Diego study, which is often referenced when discussing the efficacy of field sobriety tests, the HGN test demonstrated a high level of accuracy in detecting intoxication. The accuracy percentage of 88% indicates that a significant majority of individuals who were administered the test were accurately classified regarding their level of impairment based on the HGN test results. This study's findings support the use of HGN as a reliable indicator of impairment and help justify its use by law enforcement officers during DUI investigations. This level of accuracy outperforms other sobriety tests and reinforces the importance of the HGN test as a diagnostic tool in the context of determining sobriety. It is essential for officers to understand the capabilities and limitations of such tests when evaluating a driver's condition on the road.