What happens during the turning procedure of the walk and turn test?

During the turning procedure of the walk and turn test, the individual must turn without stopping. This is a critical component of the test, which evaluates a person's ability to maintain balance and coordination while executing a task that requires focus and stability. The turning phase involves the tested individual making a 180-degree turn to continue walking in the opposite direction.

If the individual were to stop or lose their balance during the turn, it could indicate impairment, as the ability to smoothly transition from one direction to another without interruption is essential for tasks that require physical coordination and cognitive processing. Maintaining fluidity during the turn is a key factor in assessing the overall performance on this sobriety test. Each step of the test is designed to gather evidence regarding a person's physical and cognitive abilities, particularly in relation to alcohol impairment.