What is the major decision that must be made in Phase Three of DWI detection?

The major decision that must be made in Phase Three of DWI detection focuses on whether to arrest the subject for driving while intoxicated (DWI). This phase comes after the officer has completed the initial observations and assessments of the driver’s behavior, physical condition, and results from any preliminary testing, such as the standardized field sobriety tests.

In this phase, the officer has gathered sufficient evidence to evaluate whether the driver is impaired to the extent that they pose a danger to themselves or others on the road. The determination to arrest hinges on the officer's interpretation of the evidence collected, including behavioral cues and physical indicators of impairment. Making the decision to arrest not only requires an assessment of the driver's condition but also an understanding of the legal standards for impairment.

The other choices involve actions that may be relevant to the overall process of law enforcement but do not encapsulate the critical decision-making point that Phase Three represents in the standardized DWI detection protocol. Conducting a breath test, calling for backup, or asking more questions could provide additional information but do not directly address the pivotal decision of whether legal action should be taken against the driver suspected of DWI.