In a car crash or other incident involving multiple vehicles the police may investigate whether the driver of any of the vehicles is under the influence of or intoxicated by alcohol or drugs, and are not limited to investigating and arresting only the driver who was at fault in the accident, for example.
In Alaska, when a car crash or other incident involving multiple vehicles occurs, law enforcement officers have the authority to investigate all drivers involved for potential impairment due to alcohol or drugs. This means that even if a driver is not at fault for the accident, they can still be subject to investigation and arrest if there is probable cause to believe they are under the influence. Alaska's laws on driving under the influence (DUI) are codified in Alaska Statutes Section 28.35.030, which prohibits operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated. The statute applies to all drivers on the road, regardless of their role in an accident. If an officer has reasonable grounds to suspect that any driver is intoxicated, they can conduct field sobriety tests, breathalyzer tests, or other chemical tests to determine the driver's level of intoxication. Refusal to submit to a chemical test when suspected of DUI can result in penalties under Alaska Statute 28.35.032.