Getting pulled over for driving while under the influence of alcohol is something that no one is ever truly prepared for. It’s a frightening experience that forces you to face the consequences of potentially putting others’ lives in danger.
If you are arrested for a DUI, there are some essential things that you should know. It’s vital to ensure that you avoid doing the following things under any circumstances.
Answer Too Many Questions Without an Attorney Present
If you’re pulled over under suspicion of driving drunk, then it’s crucial that you comply with the officer as much as possible. However, you also need to protect your rights. If you are charged with a DUI, it could negatively affect your life in a variety of ways.
Therefore, it’s important that you find a balance between complying with the officer while still protecting your rights. Don’t lie, but don’t divulge too much information when they press you for answers.
You can tell them that you prefer to have a lawyer present before revealing any more information. Anything that you say can be used against you later in court, so you’re better off staying as quiet as possible.
Admit You’re Drunk
Above all, do not acknowledge that you have been driving after drinking alcohol. Providing this information freely will result in a judge using your confession against you in court. Stay quiet about what you were doing before driving if you want to increase your chances of charges being dropped.
Resist An Officer
The worst possible thing that you can do any time that you’re pulled over by a police officer is to argue with or resist them. Under no circumstances should you upset the officer or give them a reason to believe that you are resisting them. Comply with their requests respectfully while maintaining your rights as a citizen.
Refuse Breathalyzer Test
Many people’s first instinct is to refuse a breathalyzer test out of fear that it will immediately prove their guilt. While it is true that test results are enough evidence to support a DUI charge, skilled lawyers know how to argue the results of a breathalyzer test. They aren’t always accurate, and it is, therefore, possible to claim that the results were invalid.
However, in many cases, the police officer will take you to the station to give you a blood test which is unarguably accurate. On top of more accurate test results which will decrease your chances of your case being dismissed, your driver’s license will be revoked by the state. Getting your license back will involve an entirely separate court case after your DUI case is settled. You’re better off taking the breathalyzer test and hiring a reputable lawyer.
Image Credits: Josh Hild
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