Indications To Law Enforcement That A Driver Is Impaired

Indications To Law Enforcement That A Driver Is Impaired

After a law enforcement individual stops a driver that is suspected of drunk driving, they will typically look for certain key signs that the person may indeed be impaired in some way. For example, once a traffic stop has been initiated and a driver exhibits difficulty in exiting the vehicle, an officer may conclude that a driver is impaired to some degree. This may often result in a field sobriety test.

The Odor Of Alcoholic Substances

Equally indicative of an impaired driver is when the driver fumbles with their registration or driver’s license. Simple tasks that require basic motor skills often can provide clear insight into the level of impairment an individual may be experiencing. If law enforcement detects the odor of alcoholic substances on a driver or coming from the driver this may be an obvious sign that the driver is impaired. This is another instance where an officer may request that the driver submit to a field sobriety test.

Exhibiting Balance Related Problems

Slurred speech or talking in an incoherent way may provide a clue that a driver has some type of impairment. Whether it is alcohol, drugs or lack of sleep, impaired driving can come in many forms. That said regardless of the type of impairment involved, accidents often result from those that do not have full mental and physical facility while operating a motor vehicle. Even something as simple as being unsteady or exhibiting balance related problems that includes swaying or leaning on the vehicle provides officers with insight into one’s physical and mental condition.

Medication That Is Causing Poor Judgment

Finally, if an officer must repeat a question several times or the driver is slow to respond this is another way to determine if a driver is exhibiting impairment. Officers will also watch a vehicle for erratic maneuvering, poor vehicle control and improper speed as a way to detect an inebriated driver or driver that is on some type of medication that may be causing poor judgment. Even something as simple as a driver not wearing a seatbelt may elicit a traffic stop to determine whether or not a driver has been drinking. One of the simplest ways to avoid a traffic stop related to impairment is to never drive while impaired. Contact Hastings and Hastings for personal injury legal representation in Phoenix.