Why Was I Stopped for DWI?

By Sullivan Rice

One of the most common questions our experienced DWI lawyers hear from clients is, “Why was I stopped for DWI?” Understanding the reasons behind a DWI stop can be crucial for your defense.

While some reasons are obvious—like swerving across lanes—others may come as a surprise. Our lawyers have over 20 years of experience and have identified the top reasons drivers are pulled over for DWI. Here are the ten most common reasons:

Top 10 Reasons Drivers Are Stopped for DWI

10. The “Dozer”

Drivers who fall asleep or lose consciousness while driving, often dubbed “dozers,” can be found in various locations—like parking lots, driveways, or even idling at traffic signals. These scenarios are frequently reported by concerned bystanders, especially during harsh winter months when individuals seek warmth in their vehicles.

9. Vehicle Collisions

When police respond to a car accident and suspect impairment, they will likely conduct a deeper investigation. Whether the incident is minor or severe, any indication of impairment can lead to DWI charges, resulting in serious legal consequences.

8. Exceeding Speed Limits

Speeding offers law enforcement a clear justification for pulling you over. Once stopped, officers will check for signs of impairment—like the scent of alcohol or slurred speech—that could escalate the situation into a DWI investigation.

7. Erratic Lane Changes

Weaving in and out of lanes can lead to a DWI stop. Minnesota law requires drivers to stay in their lanes, and officers are trained to recognize that impaired drivers often exhibit this behavior, providing a legitimate basis for the stop.

6. Reports from Concerned Citizens

Calls from worried citizens can trigger DWI stops, but the credibility of the information provided is crucial. Detailed observations from identifiable witnesses lend weight to the legality of the stop, while anonymous tips are typically viewed with skepticism.

5. Vehicle Compliance Issues

Minor vehicle problems, such as a broken taillight or expired registration, can lead to a traffic stop that escalates into a DWI investigation. If the officer unlawfully broadens the scope of their inquiry, there may be grounds to challenge the evidence collected.

4. Special Registration Plates

Special license plates known as “whiskey plates,” assigned to repeat DWI offenders, can attract law enforcement scrutiny. However, these plates alone cannot justify a stop; they may contribute to a lawful traffic stop when combined with other factors.

3. Invalid License of the Vehicle Owner

If the registered owner of the vehicle has a suspended or revoked license, an officer may initiate a stop to investigate. However, the officer must reasonably assume that the registered owner is the one driving the vehicle.

2. Outstanding Warrant for the Vehicle Owner

When the registered owner has an active warrant, law enforcement can stop the vehicle. However, the officer’s belief that the owner is driving must be reasonable for the stop to be valid.

1. No real reason

Unfortunately, some officers may initiate stops without any valid reason, acting on a mere instinct. If you suspect that your stop was unjustified, this could provide a basis for contesting the DWI charges against you.Unfortunately, some officers may pull over drivers without a valid reason, based solely on a hunch. If you believe your stop lacked legal justification, this could form the basis for challenging the DWI charges against you.

Questions About Your DWI Stop?

If you've been arrested for DWI and have questions about your stop, our knowledgeable DWI lawyers are here to help. Contact Jack Rice Defense today to learn how we can protect your rights and navigate your legal situation. You can always give us a call art 651-447-7650 or 612-227-1339. When your life is on the line, make sure Jack Rice Defense is by your side.