DUI Symptoms
Driving while under the influence (DUI) charges can result in serious penalties for the accused. What many don’t realize is that DUI arrests are often made subjectively based on “symptoms” of intoxication.
Symptoms of Intoxication at DUI Checkpoint
Here are some examples of symptoms officers look for during DUI stops:
- Slurred speech;
- Chattiness;
- Confidence;
- Calm demeanor;
- Decreased inhibition;
- Loss of memory;
- Loss of balance;
- Drowsiness;
- Loss of fine motor skills;
- Decreased reaction time;
- Glossy eyes;
- Blurry vision;
- Weakened hearing;
- Sweating;
- Slowed eye movements;
- Reduced blood pressure;
- Nausea.
Subjectivity of DUI Symptoms
The problem with DUI stops is that officers can arrest people whom they believe are under the influence to the point that they are a harm to themselves or others. While many see this power as a good thing, it can lead to questionable arrests.
For example, assume that a man is driving late at night and is pulled over for speeding. The officer asks the man if he’s been drinking, and the man says he had two beers throughout the night. The officer asks him to perform sobriety tests, and the man barely passes the tests.
After the man barely passes the tests, the officer asks him to take a breathalyzer. The man complies and blows a 0.04% blood alcohol content (BAC), a number well below the legal limit.
At this point, the officer decides to arrest the man for DUI because he believes the man is a danger to others on the road even though he passed the tests and the breathalyzer.
Have You Been Arrested for a DUI?
If you or a loved one has been arrested for a DUI, First Coast Criminal Defense is here to help. We promise to fight against subjective evidence levied against our clients. Let our award-winning representation help you make your case in court.
Call (904) 474-3115 now for a free consultation for your case!