What is the purpose of the pre-arrest screening phase in OWI detection?

The pre-arrest screening phase in Operating While Intoxicated (OWI) detection is primarily focused on assessing driver impairment. During this phase, law enforcement officers look for specific behaviors and signs that may indicate a driver is operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs. This involves observing the driver’s physical condition, cognitive function, and any noticeable symptoms of intoxication.

Key elements of this assessment might include the results of standardized field sobriety tests, which evaluate balance, coordination, and cognitive processing. Additionally, officers may consider other factors such as the driver's responses to questions, their speech patterns, and their overall appearance.

The ultimate goal of this screening is to gather enough evidence to ascertain whether there is probable cause to proceed with an arrest for OWI. Identifying impairment is crucial as it lays the foundation for any subsequent legal process and potential charges. The emphasis on assessing impairment distinguishes this phase from other considerations like vehicle ownership or checking a driver's license, which do not directly relate to evaluating the driver's condition at the time of the stop.