When it comes to DUI, Police Officers Know the Signs
What are some of the clues that police officers are trained to observe in a stop for suspected DUI in Norfolk, Virginia Beach, Newport News or any other city or county in Virginia?
Trained police officers will use their senses to detect clues for driving under the influence after the initial stop. The officers will use their sight to observe blood shot eyes, disheveled clothing, pale face, or any marks or bruises. Additionally, trained officers will observe individuals for swaying while walking, swaying while standing, leaning on objects for support, stumbling or loss of balance.
Police officers are well trained to observe the operation of vehicles before initiating a stop. Police officers must have a reasonable basis to stop the operator of the vehicle. However, they do not need probable cause to stop the driver.
Here are the most frequently used visual detection clues observed by the police before initiating a stop for suspected DUI are the following:
1. Weaving
2. Swerving
3. A near collision
4. Unexpected speed increases and decreases
5. Driving below the posted speed limit
6. Stopping vehicle in lane of travel for no reason
7. Driving without headlights at night
8. Driving wrong way down a one way street
9. Very wide turns
10. Improper lane change
The police officer will also use their hearing to listen for slurred speech, abusive language, inconsistent statements, and admissions of drinking. Officers also listen for yelling or loud talking.
If you or a family member has had too much to drink, please do not drink and drive. You can call a cab and retrieve your vehicle the next day or call a tow truck to bring your car home and ride with the driver. Remember be safe by keeping everyone safe.
Drinking responsibly (or not drinking at all) is the best guard against getting pulled over in the first place. If you do happen to find yourself charged with driving under the influence (DUI), call or contact the experienced DUI attorneys at Montagna Law. You can’t afford to stand trial alone.
Written By Jon Montagna
Jon Montagna received a Bachelor of Arts in Literature from American University in Washington D.C. and graduated Cum Laude from the University of Miami School of Law in 1999. Jon practices law in the Hampton Roads Virginia area.
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