What is the final focus of the OWI detection process before making an arrest?

The final focus of the OWI detection process before making an arrest is the pre-arrest screening. This stage is crucial as it involves a series of field sobriety tests and assessments to evaluate the driver's level of impairment. During pre-arrest screening, officers collect evidence that indicates the driver may be operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

This process is important because it allows law enforcement to establish probable cause for an arrest based on the driver's performance in these tests. Officers observe factors such as balance, coordination, and the ability to follow instructions, which can demonstrate impairment. The information gathered during this phase is vital for the subsequent legal process, ensuring that the arrest is justified and that the evidence is admissible in court.

While vehicle compliance checks, personal driver interaction, and vehicle in motion analysis are components of OWI enforcement, they serve more as preliminary steps in the detection process rather than the final determination of a sufficient basis for an arrest.