What is an important procedure immediately after stopping a suspected DWI driver?

Securing the vehicle is a critical procedure immediately after stopping a suspected DWI driver because it ensures the safety of the officers, the driver, and other road users. By securing the vehicle, law enforcement prevents the driver from potentially fleeing or causing additional danger if they are impaired. This action often involves turning off the vehicle and ensuring its position does not obstruct traffic or create hazards.

While informing the driver of their rights, conducting field sobriety tests, and requesting their driver's license are also important steps in the process, they typically follow the initial action of securing the scene. Ensuring safety and stability at the onset allows officers to proceed with the subsequent steps of the arrest or assessment of sobriety without escalating the situation or compromising safety.