Vehicle in motion requires that the officer see some indication of DWI based on driver behavior.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Only in certain jurisdictions
• D. It depends on the time of day

Answer: (B)

Stopping a vehicle in motion doesn’t require you to already see signs of DWI. Reasonable suspicion for a stop can come from a legitimate traffic violation or from observable, unsafe operation of the vehicle. Signs of impairment can heighten suspicion, but you’re allowed to initiate contact for a traffic violation or other legitimate reason and then assess impairment during the stop.

So the statement is not correct because you don’t need to see driver behavior indicating DWI before stopping; a valid initial reason to stop can be something other than DWI cues, and impairment can be evaluated after contact.