Signs of Intoxication That Police Look For

There are certain signs police officers look for when considering pulling someone over on suspicion of DUI or DWI. Police officers aren't supposed to pull over just anyone. There are driving patterns that indicate when a driver may be too intoxicated to be driving. Only when these signs are present should officers pull over a driver to investigate a possible drunk driving situation. These signs include:

• Failure to drive in a straight line
• Swerving in and out of lanes
• Straddling over two lanes
• Making really wide turns
• Speeding up or slowing down abruptly
• Driving without headlights on
• Driving extremely slowly
• Almost striking or hitting another vehicle or a stationary object
• Rolling through stop sign or running a red light
• Drifting
• Braking erratically

In addition, the law also states that police officers must have probable cause to believe someone is intoxicated in order to arrest them for driving under the influence. There are several signs police officers look for to determine if a driver is under the influence of drugs or alcohol, such as:

• Red, bloodshot, watery, and/or glassy eyes
• The scent of alcohol on the breath
• Slurring of speech
• Disheveled appearance
• Flushed cheeks
• Staggering or swaying (if asked to get out of the vehicle and walk)
• Inability to address the officer's questions or comments  

If you have been arrested and taken into custody on DUI charges, a DUI defense lawyer can be of invaluable help when it comes to fighting your charges. If you need help finding a DUI attorney near you, click here to search our nationwide directory of DUI lawyers.