When law enforcement officers suspect a driver of operating a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs (DUI) in New Jersey, they rely on their rigorous training to identify signs of impairment. As such, it’s important to understand the various indicators that officers look for to ensure you make informed decisions and are aware of your rights during a traffic stop. Please continue reading to learn the common signs of intoxication that police officers observe when questioning a suspected drunk driver and why connecting with our knowledgeable Bergen County DUI Attorneys is in your best interest.
What is a DUI?
Firstly, it’s important to understand that a DUI is a serious criminal offense in which an individual operates a motor vehicle while intoxicated by drugs or alcohol. When an individual is impaired, they are no longer capable of safely driving a vehicle. Essentially, certain substances can change parts of the brain that control motor skills, which slows down reflexes and decreases a driver’s critical capabilities. In New Jersey, the legal limit for a DUI is a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher.
What Signs of Impairment Do Officers Look For When Questioning a Suspected Drunk Driver?
One of the biggest red flags for officers is erratic driving behavior. This may include swerving between lanes, drifting in and out of traffic, illegal turns, abrupt lane changes, or driving at inconsistent speeds. In addition, when officers approach a suspected impaired driver during a traffic stop, they will pay close attention to their coordination and motor skills. If a driver has slurred speech or difficulty retrieving documents, it could indicate impairment. This is because alcohol reduces the function of the brain, affecting reasoning and muscle coordination.
Furthermore, drivers who have difficulty following simple instructions, such as providing identification or stepping out of the vehicle. If you cannot comprehend and execute an officer’s commands it will raise suspicion. Police officers are also trained to detect the odor of alcohol. If there is alcohol on a driver’s breath, it can give an officer probable cause to extend their investigation. The officer can request a field sobriety test. These tests can include walking in a straight line, standing on one leg, etc. Poor performance can be used as evidence that your motor skills are impaired.
If you were arrested for drunk driving in New Jersey, it’s in your best interest to enlist the help of an experienced attorney from The Law Office of Carl Spector, who can help protect your rights and effectively represent your interests. Connect with us today to learn more about how we can fight for your future.