October 27, 2015

Overview of Detection, Note Taking, and Testimony DWI Detection and Standardized Field Sobriety Testing What is Vague Versus Clear?

Session 4 - Overview of Detection, Note Taking, and Testimony
DWI Detection and Standardized Field Sobriety Testing
What is Vague Versus Clear?
Use Clear Convincing Language
4-17
Use Clear and Convincing Language
Field notes are only as good as the information they contain. Reports must be clearly
written and events accurately described if the reports are to have evidentiary value.
One persistent problem with DWI incident reports is the use of vague language to
describe conditions, events and statements. When vague language is used, reports
provide an inaccurate picture of what happened. Clear and complete field notes help in
preparation for your testimony.
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HS 178 R5/13 12 of 21
Session 4 - Overview of Detection, Note Taking, and Testimony
DWI Detection and Standardized Field Sobriety Testing
Vague Clear
Made an illegal left turn on
Jefferson
Drove erratically
Driver appeared drunk,
shaking
From Main, turned left (north
bound) on Jefferson, which is
one way south bound
Weaving from side to side.
Crossed center line twice and
drove on shoulder three times
Driver’s eyes bloodshot; gaze
fixed; Strong odor of
alcoholic beverage on driver’s
breath
4-18
Consider the following examples. Vague Language and Clear Language
• Made an illegal left turn on Jefferson
• From Main, turned left (north bound) on Jefferson, which is one way south bound
• Drove erratically
• Weaving from side to side. Crossed center line twice and drove on shoulder three
times
• Driver appeared drunk, shaking
• Driver’s eyes bloodshot; gaze fixed; Strong odor of alcoholic beverage on driver’s
breath
Session 4 - Overview of Detection, Note Taking, and Testimony
DWI Detection and Standardized Field Sobriety Testing
Vague Clear
Vehicle stopped in
unusual fashion
Vehicle crossed the
center line
Vehicle struck, climbed
curb; stopped on
sidewalk
Vehicle drifted
completely into the
opposing traffic lane
4-19
Consider the following examples. Vague Language and Clear Language
• Vehicle stopped in unusual fashion
• Vehicle struck, climbed curb; stopped on sidewalk
• Vehicle crossed the center line
• Vehicle drifted completely into the opposing traffic lane
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HS 178 R5/13 13 of 21Source: DWI Detection and
Standardized Field
Sobriety Testing

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