During a sobriety check, what is a common sign of impairment that officers look for?

Poor balance is a commonly observed sign of impairment that officers look for during a sobriety check. When someone is under the influence of alcohol or drugs, their ability to maintain a stable stance and walk in a straight line can be significantly affected. This instability often manifests as swaying, stumbling, or an overall inability to control their movements. Officers are trained to recognize these physical indicators, which often correlate with cognitive impairments caused by intoxication.

In contrast, excessive talking may not necessarily indicate impairment; some individuals may be more talkative regardless of sobriety levels. Fluid movements would generally suggest control and coordination, which is the opposite of what officers are looking for in signs of impairment. A calm demeanor can also be misleading, as some individuals may appear composed while still being under the influence. Therefore, poor balance serves as a clear and observable indication of potential impairment during sobriety checks.