Driving under the influence of alcohol is a big mistake for many reasons. Not only does it put you at risk of an accident, but you could also find yourself in serious trouble with the law.
Should a police officer stop you for suspicion of DUI, it’s imperative that you take the appropriate steps. This can be the difference between an arrest and driving away with nothing more than a scare.
- Respect the officer: Even if you don’t feel that you’re getting the respect you deserve, you shouldn’t disrespect the officer or treat them in a discourteous manner. Doing so only gives them more reason to think that you’re under the influence.
- Don’t say too much: The officer will ask you a variety of questions, many of which could lead you down a dangerous path. The more you say, the more likely you are to slip up and share information that gives them reason to believe you’ve been drinking. You have the legal right to decline to answer any question you’re asked.
- Don’t fabricate a story: From the second you’re pulled over, you’ll begin to wonder what you can do to avoid an arrest. And for many, this means fabricating a story to share with the officer. For example, it’s a common mistake to tell the officer that you only had one drink a few hours ago. They’ve heard it all, so you’re best off keeping quiet.
- Resisting arrest: It’s your hope that it doesn’t come to this, but if the officer states that they’re putting you under arrest you should remain calm. Yes, it’s difficult to do so, especially if you really are sober, but it’s better than putting up a fight. This can lead to additional criminal charges, which have their own consequences.
Every step you take during a DUI stop is intended to help you avoid an arrest. Your goal is to drive away from the scene, without any trouble.
However, this doesn’t always happen, so you need to know how to protect your legal rights. Once you’re processed and released, you can turn your focus to your court date and the steps you can take to prevent a conviction.
