NCJ Number
125225
Journal
Law and Order Volume: 38 Issue: 7 Dated: (July 1990) Pages: 57-58
Date Published
1990
Length
2 pages
Annotation
This paper describes the use of the Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus (HGN) test to determine a driver's level of intoxication.
Abstract
It determines the degree of alcohol and drug impairment by measuring the presence of nystagmus in the eye. However non-alcohol related nystagmus infrequently can occur in congenital, opticokinetic, and labyrinthine irritability cases. As a diagnostic tool, HGN is reliable, easy to use, and non-threatening. It overcomes physical handicaps, but does require officer training and practice as well as record keeping.