What should an officer do if they suspect drug use while driving?

When an officer suspects drug use while driving, conducting a field sobriety test is a crucial step in assessing the driver's impairment. Field sobriety tests provide a standardized method for evaluating a person's physical and cognitive functions, which can help determine their level of impairment due to drug use.

These tests are designed to measure indicators such as balance, coordination, and cognitive abilities through various tasks like walking in a straight line or standing on one leg. If the results indicate impairment, it gives the officer reasonable grounds to proceed with further investigation, which could include an arrest or a request for a more detailed toxicology assessment.

In contrast, immediately arresting the driver without conducting these tests may not provide sufficient evidence to support the arrest if the driver is not actually impaired. Similarly, calling for backup can be helpful in certain situations, but it does not address the immediate need to evaluate the driver’s ability to operate the vehicle safely. Issuing a warning without further assessment could allow an impaired driver to continue on the road and pose a danger to themselves and others. Conducting a field sobriety test ensures that the officer takes the necessary steps to uphold road safety and enforce the law appropriately.