What is the primary function of an officer during Phase 3 of an OUI stop?

During Phase 3 of an OUI (Operating Under the Influence) stop, the primary function of the officer is to perform a pre-arrest screening. This phase typically occurs after the initial traffic stop and after the officer has observed signs of impairment. The pre-arrest screening involves conducting field sobriety tests and collecting information that may support the decision to arrest the driver for OUI.

The pre-arrest screening is critical as it allows the officer to gather evidence of impairment, assess the driver's coordination and mental status, and determine whether there is probable cause for arrest. This phase requires an officer to evaluate the driver's performance in various tests designed to measure balance, dexterity, and cognitive functions, which are often affected by alcohol or drugs.

While other options like conducting a breathalyzer test, issuing a citation, or verifying insurance are relevant tasks in the context of a traffic stop, they generally come after the initial screening process. The breathalyzer test may be used in conjunction with, or following, the pre-arrest screening, while issuing a citation usually involves infractions or violations unrelated to OUI, and insurance verification is typically a separate concern altogether. Thus, the emphasis on the pre-arrest screening highlights the officer's role in determining impairment and the appropriate