In a DUI traffic stop, what test is commonly used to assess a driver's cognitive abilities?

The oral recitation of the alphabet is commonly used in DUI traffic stops to evaluate a driver’s cognitive abilities. This test checks not only the driver's ability to think clearly but also their capacity for coordination, which can be impaired by alcohol or drugs. It typically requires the driver to follow a simple verbal task while also managing the stress of being stopped by law enforcement, thus providing a quick and observable measure of cognitive impairment.

This task is straightforward and doesn't demand complex skills, making it an effective initial assessment tool by officers. It allows law enforcement to gauge the driver's state and helps determine if further testing, such as a breathalyzer or field sobriety tests, is necessary. Other options, such as written examinations, hands-free tasks, or video analyses, do not directly assess the driver's immediate cognitive ability during a stop.