What is involved during the second phase of OUI enforcement?

The second phase of Operating Under the Influence (OUI) enforcement focuses on the "Interview and observation of the driver." This phase is critical because it allows law enforcement officers to gather information directly from the driver, assess their demeanor, speech, and behavior, and determine whether there are observable signs of impairment.

During this phase, officers may ask questions about where the driver has been, how much they have had to drink, and other relevant factors that can provide insight into the driver's state. Additionally, the officer will observe physical cues such as bloodshot eyes, the smell of alcohol, or slurred speech, all of which can indicate alcohol consumption or impairment. The observations and information gathered help establish probable cause for further testing or intervention.

While other options like vehicle operation tests, field sobriety tests, and documenting the crash scene are also crucial components of OUI enforcement, they represent different stages or aspects of the overall enforcement process. The interview and observation phase serves as a foundational step that influences the subsequent actions taken by law enforcement.