Driving while intoxicated (DWI) is a serious offense in New Jersey. Police officers are always on the lookout for drivers who may be impaired. There are specific signs they look for when deciding whether to pull someone over for a suspected DWI.
Signs of impaired driving
Police can pull you over if they see signs that suggest impaired driving. These signs might include swerving between lanes, driving too slowly, or failing to use headlights at night. Sudden braking, stopping without reason, or not obeying traffic signals can also make officers suspicious. If an officer believes a driver is impaired based on their actions, they have the right to stop the vehicle.
Traffic violations
The police can also pull you over for any kind of traffic violation, even if it seems minor. This includes running a red light, speeding, or failing to use a turn signal. During the traffic stop, if the officer suspects you might be under the influence, they can investigate further. This could lead to field sobriety tests or a breathalyzer test if the officer sees signs of impairment, like slurred speech or the smell of alcohol.
Sobriety checkpoints
Police also use sobriety checkpoints to catch impaired drivers. These checkpoints are set up in specific areas, often during times when people are likely to be drinking, like weekends or holidays. At a checkpoint, police can stop cars without seeing any specific signs of impaired driving. They check all drivers for signs of intoxication, and if they suspect a driver has been drinking, they may perform further tests.
New Jersey police have several ways to identify and stop drivers they suspect of driving while intoxicated. It’s important to know that even minor traffic violations or unusual driving behavior can lead to a DWI investigation. Staying safe and choosing alternate ways to get home can help ensure you don’t end up in this situation.