Some impaired drivers think they can fool any officer that stops them and questions their sobriety. Those people are usually wrong. Because, along with the evidence provided by medical/scientific tests on bodily fluids, law enforcement officials now receive specialized training in identifying impaired drivers.
In Arizona, one of these programs is A.R.I.D.E. — Advanced Roadside Impaired Driving Enforcement. This course focuses on DUI tools such as SFSTs, Standardized Field Sobriety Tests: how to administer, describe and document them. Officers also learn about as the laws regarding these tests. In Arizona, once a driver is arrested, he/she may not refuse to take a blood, breath or urine test. Arizona law gives the arresting officer the choice of which test to use; however, here in the Gilbert jurisdiction, only blood may be taken.
The DEC Program – Drug Evaluation and Classification – trains law enforcement officials as drug recognition experts (DREs). Officers learn the physical and mental signs of impairment, as well as the importance of biological/medical tests. Now that DUI laws apply to both drugged and drunk driving, this expertise is more relevant than ever.
In addition, law enforcement officers may receive phlebotomy training, to draw blood if needed, at the station or other location.
An impaired driver may believe that luck, timing, or even charm can fool an officer during a roadside stop. The truth is, Arizona officers are increasingly well-trained regarding impairment and DUI charges. So obviously, the smart thing would be not to challenge them to demonstrate.
No doubt drivers will continue to find themselves in DUI-related situations. Should that occur, here is a valuable piece of knowledge: seek out the help of an experienced attorney at Zachary Law Group. We offer a FREE 30-minute case evaluation to get started on your questions and issues. From there, we can represent you, assert and protect your rights, and work toward the best possible outcome. That’s how we “Zach-It”! So be smart. Give us a call soon, at 1-855-Zach-law.
