Which phase is characterized by direct interaction between the officer and the driver?

The phase characterized by direct interaction between the officer and the driver is the Personal Contact phase. During this stage, the officer engages with the driver after stopping the vehicle, allowing for direct observation and questioning. It is a crucial time to assess the driver’s demeanor, behavior, and overall condition, which may provide indicators of impairment.

This phase typically follows the Vehicle in Motion phase, where the officer observes the vehicle's movement for signs of erratic driving, and precedes the Pre-Arrest Screening phase that includes the administration of standardized field sobriety tests. In contrast, the Post-Arrest Processing phase occurs after an arrest has been made, focusing on further legal procedures rather than direct interaction.