What should you be aware of to identify if someone is under the influence of drugs or alcohol?

Being aware of common warning signs of inebriation is essential for accurately identifying if someone may be under the influence of drugs or alcohol. These signs can include physical indicators such as slurred speech, difficulty maintaining balance, bloodshot eyes, or unusual behavior that deviates from normal patterns.

Recognizing these behaviors allows officers to make informed assessments before determining the next steps, such as whether to conduct further questioning or perform sobriety tests. Observation is a critical first step in identifying impairment, as it provides clear, visual cues that signal to an officer that a person may pose a safety risk to themselves or others.

While checking for a driver's license, asking if they have been drinking, or immediately performing a sobriety test may be part of the overall process, the initial observation of warning signs serves as the foundation for the assessment. Without recognizing these warning signs first, other steps may not be appropriately warranted.