What could prevent Phase Three from occurring during a DWI investigation?

Phase Three of a DWI investigation often involves additional steps, such as field sobriety tests or breathalyzer tests, which are aimed at determining the level of impairment of a driver suspected of driving under the influence. If a driver is badly impaired, it may hinder their ability to perform these tests accurately. Additionally, if the driver refuses to take the tests, this can directly prevent the officer from completing this phase of the investigation, as testing is a critical component of that phase.

This situation can lead to challenges in gathering evidence for a DWI charge. The officer may have to decide on alternative actions without the benefit of the test results that are usually obtained in Phase Three. Therefore, a driver's significant impairment or refusal to comply can effectively halt the progression of the investigation at this critical stage.

Other factors, such as bystander presence or weather conditions, may complicate the process or affect the officer's ability to conduct the investigation, but the fundamental issue that directly prevents Phase Three from occurring is the driver's impairment or refusal to participate in the tests.