3 Mistakes To Avoid When Pulled Over For Suspicion Of DUI
Avoiding a DUI arrest is as easy as not getting behind the wheel after you've had too much to drink. Unfortunately, when alcohol clouds your judgment, it can be difficult to know when you've had too much. Hopefully, you'll never find yourself in a situation where you're being pulled over under suspicion of driving under the influence. If you are, however, it's important that you understand your rights. Specifically, there are a few common mistakes you'll want to avoid in your interactions with a police officer.
Incriminating Yourself By Answering Questions
More than likely, an officer who believes you've been drinking will ask you how much you've had to drink. What you may not realize is that you are under no obligation to answer this question. In fact, voluntarily answering this question could end up incriminating you or giving the officer probable cause to either search your vehicle for an open container or perform roadside field sobriety testing. It's up to you if you wish to answer questions about how much you've had to drink, but if you suspect you may have had one too many, your best bet is probably to remain quiet and avoid incriminating yourself.
Assuming You Must Submit to Sobriety Tests
If an officer asks you to submit to field sobriety testing, you should also be aware that you have a right to refuse these tests for any reason. Keep in mind, however, that if you refuse field sobriety testing and the officer still has probable cause to believe you're driving under the influence, you may be taken into custody and forced to submit a blood sample to check your blood alcohol levels.
Trying to Talk Your Way Out of an Arrest
If you fail field sobriety testing or are otherwise arrested and charged with a DUI, the best thing you can do is contact a lawyer and wait to post bail. Trying to talk your way out of a DUI arrest is not going to get you anywhere once those handcuffs are on. If you truly are under the legal limit, this will likely be revealed when you take a breath or blood test shortly after your arrest and before you're booked at a local jail.
A DUI charge can certainly have a negative impact on your life, which is why it's so important to drink responsibly and understand your rights if you're ever pulled over. To learn more about your rights, contact a team of lawyers such as Daniels Long & Pinsel.
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