Even if you haven't been doing anything illegal, being pulled over by the police can be quite nerve-wracking. Throw a few drinks into the mix and you're probably not just nervous—you're terrified.
According to a report by the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration (NHTSA), there are certain things an officer will be looking for if they pull you over for a suspected DWI:
- Difficulty with motor vehicle controls
- Difficulty exiting the vehicle
- Fumbling with your driver's license or registration
- Repeating questions or comments
- Swaying, unsteadiness, or balance problems
- Leaning on the vehicle or other object
- Slurred speech
- Being slow to respond to the officer, or the officer needs to repeat things for you
- Providing incorrect information and changing answers
- Odor of alcoholic beverage from the driver
Why would a police officer pull you over for drunk driving in the first place? The clues are all in how you are driving. There are quite a few signs that law enforcement officers look for, including:
- Weaving across lane lines
- Almost striking a vehicle or other object
- Drifting or swerving
- Accelerating or decelerating for no apparent reason
- Driving more than 10 mph under the speed limit
- Slow response to traffic signals
- Driving without headlights at night
- Takes turns that are too wide, too fast, too jerky, or too sharp
Even if you have only had a couple of drinks, it's always better to be safe than sorry. Ask a friend to give you a ride, call a cab, or even walk home if you don't have other options. When you decide to drink, you also make the decision not to get behind the wheel of a car.
If you've been arrested for DWI in Texas, call Waco DWI attorney Walter Reaves for a free consultation at 254-296-0020.
