What is the procedure that law enforcement follows when conducting a DWI stop?

The procedure that law enforcement follows when conducting a DWI stop is centered around establishing probable cause for impaired driving. Initially, officers observe the driver's behavior and the vehicle's operation for signs of intoxication. This can include erratic driving patterns, swerving, or other indicators that suggest impairment.

If the officer suspects that the driver is under the influence, the next step typically involves administering field sobriety tests. These tests are designed to evaluate the driver’s physical and cognitive abilities, such as balance, coordination, and attention. Common tests include the walk-and-turn and one-leg stand tests.

If the field sobriety tests suggest impairment, the officer may then proceed to chemical testing, which can be conducted using a breathalyzer or other devices to measure blood alcohol concentration (BAC). This testing provides quantitative evidence of the driver's level of intoxication and plays a critical role in determining the appropriate legal actions that follow.

This systematic approach ensures that law enforcement acts within the legal framework and provides a basis for any subsequent charges related to driving while impaired. Other options do not reflect the typical sequence of actions taken during a DWI stop, such as focusing on arbitrary measures like handwriting analysis or issuing a citation without the necessary tests and observations.