Are routine traffic stops enough for a DUI arrest in Kentucky?

In Kentucky, routine traffic stops can lead to a DUI arrest, but there must be probable cause to justify the arrest. Probable cause refers to the reasonable belief that a driver is impaired based on specific observations made by law enforcement. These observations could include erratic driving behavior, the smell of alcohol, slurred speech, or other signs of impairment.

When law enforcement officers conduct a traffic stop and notice any indicators that suggest the driver may be under the influence of drugs or alcohol, they can proceed with a DUI investigation. If the evidence gathered during this investigation–such as the results of sobriety tests or breathalyzer tests–supports the belief that the driver is impaired, this can lead to an arrest.

Other options do not align with the legal standards for a DUI arrest in Kentucky. For instance, merely appearing nervous during a stop is insufficient on its own for an arrest without accompanying signs of impairment. Similarly, the requirement of a crash for an arrest does not reflect the law, as DUI arrests can occur based on probable cause without an accident. Lastly, while additional evidence can strengthen a case, it is not a prerequisite for making an arrest when clear probable cause exists.