What are indicators that a driver may have consumed alcohol prior to a stop?

The identification of evidence of alcohol consumption is a critical indicator that a driver may have consumed alcohol prior to being stopped. This evidence can manifest in several ways, including the presence of open containers of alcohol in the vehicle, the smell of alcohol on the driver's breath, or signs of impairment such as difficulty focusing or unusual behaviors. Law enforcement officers are trained to recognize these signs during traffic stops, as they can be strong indicators of a driver's level of sobriety and potential intoxication.

The other options may not necessarily indicate alcohol consumption directly. Vehicle speed can vary for many reasons unrelated to alcohol, passenger attitude might reflect various states of mind, and weather conditions could influence driving but do not directly relate to the driver’s alcohol consumption. Evidence of alcohol consumption provides tangible and observable signs that law enforcement can use to assess a driver's potential impairment.