When the police pull over a drunk driver, it’s usually for a traffic mistake. The police don’t know that the driver is impaired. They just know that the person is driving dangerously and violating traffic regulations. They need to have this reasonable cause for the traffic stop, and they may then seek evidence of impairment, such as bloodshot eyes, slurred speech, cognitive impairment, breath that smells like alcohol or something of this nature.
But the entire arrest still stems from that initial traffic stop. That’s why police need to know what signs to look for when observing the way that drivers behave around them on the road.
10 potential signs
To understand what the police are looking for and when they can stop a car, here are 10 potential signs of intoxication:
- Not reacting properly to a traffic signal.
- Straddling the centerline.
- Driving the wrong way down the road.
- Making erratic turns or maneuvers.
- Turning without a turn signal.
- Weaving within the traffic lane.
- Driving without headlights on at night.
- Slowing down or speeding up abruptly.
- Having a near miss and almost getting involved in an accident.
- Driving far below or above the speed limit.
One important thing to keep in mind is that the police do need to have a reason for the traffic stop. It is illegal for them to simply pull over random cars, administer breath tests, and seek drunk drivers. Traffic stops need to begin with reasonable suspicion and a valid reason for the stop, as noted above.
If you have been arrested on suspicion of drunk driving, then it’s very important for you to understand all of the legal options at your disposal. These charges can have a major impact on your future.