When you're on the road, even minor mistakes can catch the attention of law enforcement. For drivers suspected of being under the influence, these small errors can quickly lead to a DUI investigation. Police officers are trained to observe specific signs of impairment, both before and after pulling a driver over.
These signs can range from erratic driving behaviors to physical indicators like slurred speech or the smell of alcohol. Understanding what police look for can help you recognize potential risks and protect your rights if you're ever stopped on suspicion of DUI.
If you or someone you know has been charged with DUI, it's crucial to act quickly. The penalties can be severe, impacting your driving privileges, finances, and even your freedom. Our experienced DUI defense team in Lake County is here to help you navigate the legal process and fight for the best possible outcome.
Contact us today at (847) 999-7616 to discuss your case and learn how we can assist you in protecting your rights.
Signs of Impairment Police Look for in Drivers Before Pulling Them Over
Before pulling over a driver, police officers look for specific signs of impairment that might indicate intoxication or drug use. These signs include erratic driving behaviors such as swerving between lanes, sudden or unnecessary braking, or failing to maintain a consistent speed.
Officers may also notice a driver making wide turns, straddling the center line, or responding slowly to traffic signals. These behaviors can raise suspicion and lead to a traffic stop for further investigation.
Signs of Impairment Police Look for During the Traffic Stop
During a traffic stop, one of the first signs police officers look for is slurred or incoherent speech. This can indicate that a driver is under the influence of alcohol or drugs, making it difficult for them to communicate clearly.
- Bloodshot or Glassy Eyes: Officers will often check for bloodshot or glassy eyes, which are common indicators of intoxication. The presence of these signs may prompt the officer to investigate further.
- Odor of Alcohol or Drugs: A strong odor of alcohol or drugs emanating from the driver or the vehicle is a significant red flag. This can lead the officer to conduct field sobriety tests or request a breathalyzer test.
- Incoherent Behavior: Erratic or unusual behavior, such as confusion or an inability to follow simple instructions, can also signal impairment. Officers closely observe how the driver responds to questions and commands during the stop.
Field Sobriety Tests Officers May Ask Drivers to Perform if They Suspect They Are Intoxicated
If officers suspect a driver is intoxicated, they may request field sobriety tests to assess coordination and balance. These tests, like the walk-and-turn or one-leg stand, help determine impairment and are commonly used during traffic stops.
Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus (HGN) Test:
During the HGN test, an officer will instruct the driver to focus on a small object, such as a pen or a flashlight, and follow it with their eyes as it is moved from side to side. The officer is looking for involuntary jerking or bouncing of the eyes, which is known as nystagmus.
This jerking is more pronounced when a person is under the influence of alcohol or certain drugs. The presence of nystagmus can indicate a high level of impairment, making this test a reliable indicator of intoxication.
Walk-and-Turn Test:
The walk-and-turn test is a divided attention test, meaning it requires the driver to focus on both physical and mental tasks simultaneously. The driver is asked to take nine steps in a straight line, heel to toe, then turn on one foot and return in the same manner.
Officers are trained to look for several indicators of impairment during this test, such as the inability to keep balance while walking, starting the test before instructions are finished, failing to walk in a straight line, or taking an incorrect number of steps. Difficulty in performing this test may suggest that the driver’s coordination and cognitive functions are impaired.
One-Leg Stand Test
In the one-leg stand test, the driver is asked to stand on one leg while the other leg is extended approximately six inches off the ground. They must hold this position while counting aloud, usually for about 30 seconds.
Officers watch for signs of impairment, such as swaying, using arms to maintain balance, hopping, or putting the foot down prematurely. This test challenges the driver’s ability to maintain balance and follow instructions, both of which can be compromised by alcohol or drug consumption.
Consequences of Failing These Tests:
If you fail a field sobriety test, it can lead to several consequences. Typically, failing a field sobriety test gives the police officer reasonable suspicion to believe you are impaired, which can result in your arrest for DUI.
Once arrested, you may be required to take a chemical test, such as a breathalyzer or blood test, to further assess your blood alcohol content (BAC) or the presence of drugs in your system. Failing these tests can strengthen the case against you, potentially leading to charges, fines, license suspension, and other penalties.
Breathalyzer and Chemical Tests
Officers use breath and chemical tests, like breathalyzers or blood tests, to measure the level of alcohol or drugs in your system. These tests are crucial in proving intoxication because they provide a quantifiable measure of impairment. For example, a breathalyzer test measures your blood alcohol concentration (BAC), and if it exceeds the legal limit of 0.08% in Illinois, you are presumed to be driving under the influence.
The results of these tests can significantly impact your case. A high BAC reading is strong evidence for the prosecution and can lead to severe penalties, including fines, license suspension, and even jail time. However, the accuracy and administration of these tests can be challenged. Factors like improper calibration of the breathalyzer, medical conditions, or improper handling of blood samples can affect the reliability of the results. An experienced DUI defense lawyer can examine these details to potentially weaken the prosecution's case against you.
Protect Your Rights After a DUI Stop—Consult with an Attorney
Recognizing the signs of impairment that police look for can be crucial if you're ever stopped for a suspected DUI. If you find yourself facing charges, having skilled legal representation can make all the difference in protecting your rights and your future. Contact our firm today to discuss your case and learn how we can help you navigate the legal challenges ahead.