4 Things You Should Know About Being Pulled Over For A DUI

Posted on: 25 July 2017

A DUI can be a serious charge. It can affect your permanent record and can even result in your license being taken away and perhaps jail time. This is why it is important that you know how to act and what to do in the case that you are pulled over for a DUI. Here are some tips.

1. Don't Volunteer Information

When the officer pulls you over they may not even ask you questions; they might just take your license and registration. You shouldn't talk any more than you have to. Don't ramble to the officer and don't give out information that they don't specifically ask for. This will only help you. The more you talk and ramble the more likely you are to give information that could hurt you later.

2. Don't Feel Obligated to Take a Sobriety Test

When asked to do tests like "walk and turn" or "one leg stand," understand that in various states you have the right to refuse to take such tests or even a breathalyzer. These tests do not always measure alcohol consumption accurately and can serve to hurt you in court.

3. Don't Estimate How Much You Have Drank

If the officer asks you how much you have had to drink, do not estimate the amount. If you can remember exactly and you had someone with you who could verify, you may give a number, but don't just say "a beer or two" to try and give an answer. This could hurt you in court. Thus, it is better to simply not answer the question or tell them that you do not recall what you drank.

4. Comply With The Officer Respectfully

Just because you don't have to volunteer information and do certain tests, it doesn't mean that you can be rude or refuse to comply with the officer. Even if you aren't drinking and driving, acting disrespectful and hostile can get you in trouble so that you are arrested just based off your behavior. This is why you should always be sure to do what they say, so long as it is required, and if it isn't required, simply say you do not volunteer to do the test; don't be rude about it.

Visit a site like http://www.chichesterlaw.com to learn more about DUI defenses and how you can work with a lawyer to defend yourself in court if need be.

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