Police officers have the authority to stop people in traffic. If they witness significant moving violations, they can pull a driver over, discuss their concerns and then issue a citation if they deem it necessary.
Traffic tickets are costly and often inconvenient. However, they are less serious than criminal charges related to traffic violations. In some cases, police officers may arrest individuals accused of major traffic violations, such as driving under the influence (DUI) infractions.
Why might a simple traffic stop culminate in a drunk driving arrest?
Drivers may show signs of impairment
Speeding can be indicative of impaired judgment. Individuals who are under the influence of alcohol can be impulsive and may choose to violate traffic statutes by speeding, running red lights, and making other unsafe decisions. Even if prior conduct wasn’t particularly erratic, conduct during the traffic stop can raise questions about intoxication.
When a police officer pulls a driver over, the officer may notice the scent of alcohol, slurred speech or other warning signs of inebriation. The motorist might even admit that they recently consumed alcohol. In such cases, the officer may be able to justify a drunk driving arrest.
Drivers may fail chemical tests
Frequently, officers who suspect impairment ask drivers to step out of the vehicle and perform field sobriety tests. Once there is probable cause to suspect intoxication, police officers can request chemical testing. If a driver has a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) above the legal limit, that helps support the allegations of drunk driving.
A driver does not need to demonstrate diminished ability at the wheel for a police officer to have the necessary justification for a DUI arrest. Driving with a BAC above the legal limit is a crime on its own.
Those accused of drunk driving are at risk of numerous penalties. The state could suspend a driver’s license. They are at risk of fines and incarceration. A conviction can also result in a criminal record that could follow the driver accused of intoxication for the rest of their life.
Successfully fighting a DUI charge requires careful planning and an understanding of the legal basis for the state’s allegations. A lawyer can provide an alternative explanation for test results or ask the courts to suppress evidence in certain situations. Drivers hoping to avoid DUI convictions often require the support of a legal professional while they strategize before going to court, and that’s okay.