UJI 14-4512 NMRA
UJI 14-4512. Actual physical control; defined.
In determining whether the state has proved beyond a reasonable doubt that the
defendant was in actual physical control of the vehicle and that the defendant intended
to drive the vehicle, thereby posing a real danger to themselves or the public, you
should consider the totality of the circumstances shown by the evidence. You may
consider the following factors and any other relevant factors supported by the evidence:
1. whether the vehicle was running;
2. whether the ignition was in the “on” position;
3. where the ignition key was located;
4. where and in what position the driver was found in the vehicle;
5. whether the person was awake or asleep;
6. whether the vehicle’s headlights were on;
7. where the vehicle was stopped;
8. whether the driver had voluntarily pulled off the road;
9. the time of day;
10. the weather conditions;
11. whether the heater or air conditioner was on;
12. whether the windows were up or down;
13. whether the vehicle was operable;
14. any explanation of the circumstances shown by the evidence.
It is up to you to examine all the available evidence in its totality and weigh its
credibility in determining whether the defendant was simply using the vehicle as
stationary shelter or actually posed a threat to the public by the exercise of actual
control over it while impaired.