The Signs of Intoxication on the Road
Posted on 26. Feb, 2010 by Attorney in Uncategorized
Because an officer cannot simply pull someone over and administer a breath or blood test without just cause, they are trained to look for various signs that someone is inebriated. It is a good idea to know these signs yourself so that you can keep your friends or family from driving when under the influence of alcohol. The impacts of such activities can have far reaching effects – both legally and potentially in terms of their lives.
The Signs
Signs of intoxication can range wildly, and while the first sign for an officer is erratic driving, recklessness or overly cautious slow speeds, someone who is not yet driving will need to be checked for physical symptoms. These can include bloodshot or watery eyes, flushed face, red lines in the eyes or patches around the nose and forehead, a dishevelled appearance, and of course the scent of alcohol.
Other symptoms that might present themselves include an inability to control the volume of their voice, slurred or slower speech, poor motor skills when retrieving an item, problems getting out of the vehicle and poor balance or coordination. These latter effects will come out only when someone is drawn from their vehicle for a test of their motor skills and balance. Before driving, they should be evident in how someone walks as well.
Knowing When Alcohol is an Issue
In most cases, it is safest to assume someone is not able to drive if they have been drinking at all. It is unsafe to get behind the wheel under the influence of any alcohol and it can be incredibly dangerous to walk the line. Unfortunately, not everyone will be honest about their alcohol intake. In that case, you should check them carefully for these symptoms.
Ask them to walk carefully, to check their motor skills, and even smell their breath before you allow them to get behind the wheel. It may seem excessive in many ways, but there is a reason why the police use these very same tactics to test someone when they pull them over. This article is not meant to provide legal advice. If you need legal assistance, contact a lawyer.
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