What is the main purpose of the Pre-arrest screening phase?

The main purpose of the Pre-arrest screening phase is to assess a driver's sobriety. During this phase, law enforcement officers utilize standardized field sobriety tests and other observational techniques to determine whether a driver is under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The goal is to identify signs of impairment that may warrant further action, such as an arrest for driving under the influence.

Gathering personal information is a secondary consideration that typically occurs during later stages of the interaction, and administrating an arrest or issuing a citation would follow only if the assessment indicates that the driver is impaired. Therefore, the focus of the Pre-arrest screening is primarily centered around evaluating the driver's level of sobriety to ensure public safety.