During Phase 1 of OUI enforcement, what is the law enforcement officer’s initial decision?

In the context of OUI (Operating Under the Influence) enforcement, the initial decision made by a law enforcement officer during Phase 1 is to stop the vehicle. This decision is crucial as it sets the stage for further investigation and assessment of the driver's condition.

When an officer observes erratic driving behavior that may indicate impairment, the first course of action is to initiate a traffic stop. This allows the officer to approach the vehicle, interact with the driver, and assess any potential signs of impairment, such as the smell of alcohol, slurred speech, or other indicators.

Only after making the vehicle stop can the officer proceed to the subsequent phases, such as administering field sobriety tests or determining whether an arrest is warranted based on the observed behavior and results of the contact. Therefore, stopping the vehicle is a fundamental step in the regulations governing OUI enforcement and is essential for executing the enforcement process effectively.