What to Do When You Smell Alcohol: A Guide for Arizona Peace Officers

What to Do When You Smell Alcohol: A Guide for Arizona Peace Officers

Walking the beat as a peace officer in Arizona isn’t just about enforcing the law; it’s about making split-second decisions that can affect lives. Now, imagine this: You’re on patrol and you spot a driver breezing through a red light — not just a casual roll through, but a swerving escape as if they’re auditioning for a stunt show. Something feels off, doesn’t it?

Then, as you approach, you’re hit with a familiar scent — the unmistakable odor of alcohol. Now what? You’ve got a few options at your fingertips, but let’s break it down to what really matters here.

Time to Get Serious: Asking the Driver to Step Out

In this scenario, your first move should be to ask the driver to step out. Why is this so critical? Let’s put it this way: stepping out isn’t just about forcing them into the cold night air — it’s about ensuring both your safety and theirs. Once outside, you can better assess their behavior and demeanor, key indicators of their condition. Picture it like this: ever tried figuring out if someone’s tipsy just by watching them through a rolled-up window? Exactly. Not effective at all.

By having the driver exit, you create a buffer zone. This way, you can check in on their physical state, courtesy of that classic 'field sobriety test' if the situation calls for it. Is their speech slurred? Are they swaying? These observations can be vital. Plus, it’s all about keeping everyone safe; drunk driving isn’t just a violation — it’s a risk to every road user.

The Implied Consent Law: A Later Step

Don’t get me wrong, the implied consent law is a crucial part of this process. However, reading it out loud typically comes later in the chain of events. Think of it like putting on a sock before a shoe — if you’re planning to arrest for DUI, sure, the implied consent is essential to inform the driver of their rights. But it’s hardly the first step when you’re assessing someone for possible intoxication.

Napkin Math: Arrests Without Investigation

Now, let’s talk about arrests for a second. Jumping to arrest the driver without a proper investigation is like trying to fix a car engine without understanding why it broke down in the first place — risky and unwise. What if they genuinely misunderstood the stop signal, or perhaps there's another explanation for their erratic behavior? Context matters, folks.

Backup: When Risk is in the Air

And sure, requesting additional backup can be a wise decision, particularly in complex or risky situations. But is it the immediate go-to? Not usually. If the situation appears tense or if the driver shows aggression, then yeah, call for help. But in most cases, you want to first assess the individual. Weigh the danger in front of you.

Tying it All Together

So, what does it all come down to? Safety first, folks — for you and others on the road. By having the driver step out and evaluating their state, you’re not only adhering to protocol but also preventing potentially dangerous situations from escalating. It’s about being sharp, observant, and ready to react appropriately.

In the end, being an officer on the streets means possessing the right instincts and skills. Each situation will vary, requiring a blend of intuition and knowledge. Stay sharp, stay safe, and always remember: each decision you make has the potential to shape outcomes for both you and the citizens you serve.

Feeling prepared? Good! Use that knowledge to guide your actions next time you encounter a similar situation. Stay vigilant out there!