What does reasonable suspicion refer to in DWI procedures?

Reasonable suspicion in DWI procedures refers to the legal standard that allows law enforcement officers to stop a vehicle based on specific, articulable facts or observations. This could be due to erratic driving behavior, such as swerving, sudden stops, or violations of traffic laws. The presence of reasonable suspicion means that the officer has credible reasons to believe that the driver may be operating under the influence, which justifies the initial stop and subsequent investigation.

While initial observations of a driver’s behavior can contribute to this suspicion, reasonable suspicion itself focuses more on the overall context and facts that lead an officer to conclude that further action is warranted. It is critical for officers to articulate these observations clearly, as they must convey the basis of the reasonable suspicion if questioned later in court.