When might leaning against a vehicle be considered a clue to DUI?

Leaning against a vehicle can be considered a clue to DUI when it occurs during the process of exiting the vehicle. This behavior may indicate that the individual is experiencing difficulty maintaining their balance, a common sign associated with impairment due to alcohol or drugs. When a person is impaired, they may rely on nearby structures, like a vehicle, for support, thus exhibiting physical signs that are crucial for law enforcement officers in making assessments regarding sobriety.

In this context, leaning while exiting can suggest instability and a lack of coordination, which are important indicators that an officer might consider alongside other signs of intoxication. This behavior ties in with the officer's overall observation of the individual’s physical state and their ability to perform tasks that require coordination and balance, both of which are affected by impairment.