What should an officer tell the driver after completing a crash investigation?

When an officer completes a crash investigation and decides to initiate a DUI investigation, it is critical for the officer to communicate this clearly to the driver. Informing the driver that a DUI investigation is commencing serves several purposes. First, it ensures transparency in the process, allowing the driver to understand the reason for any further questioning or testing. Second, it establishes the foundation for any subsequent actions the officer may take, which may include administering field sobriety tests or breathalyzer tests. This communication also protects the officer's legal standing and ensures that the driver is aware of their situation, which can be crucial both for the driver's rights and for the investigation itself.

In this context, the other options, while they might seem plausible in certain scenarios, do not accurately reflect the necessary communication an officer should have when transitioning from a crash investigation to a DUI investigation. For example, stating that the driver is free to go could mislead them about the ongoing investigation, while suggesting they can call a lawyer does not address the immediate needs of informing them of their legal status. Additionally, telling the driver they are under arrest may preclude an officer from conducting a thorough investigation unless they have sufficient evidence to justify the arrest at that moment. Overall, starting a DUI investigation is crucial when