If a police officer has reason to believe you’re operating a motor vehicle under the influence, they won’t hesitate to pull you over. Maybe they’re right, maybe they’re wrong. Either way, you’re sure to have concerns about what will happen next.
Rather than deal with this type of traffic stop should the time come, there’s some important things you should know:
- Don’t attempt to get away: It goes without saying, but you should immediately move your car to a safe place if an officer puts on their lights and moves behind you vehicle. There’s never a good time to flee, so put on your hazard lights and find a safe place to move your vehicle.
- You don’t have to say anything: It’s not likely that you’ll sit in your vehicle in total silence, but you must realize that you have the legal right to remain silent. So, if the officer asks a question you don’t understand or one that could implicate you of a crime, politely decline to answer.
- The officer may ask you to get out of your vehicle: If this happens, they’re likely to ask you to partake in a field sobriety test. Also, during this time, keep in mind that the officer cannot search your vehicle without reasonable cause. For example, they don’t have the legal authority to break open your trunk in search of alcohol, drugs or something else that could potentially lead to your arrest.
- You could be put under arrest: You hope to avoid it, but the officer may decide to put you under arrest for operating under the influence. If this happens, follow their direction and remain silent. Don’t resist or continue to talk, as you could do and/or say something that works against you when your day in court arrives.
These are some of the more important things to know if you’re pulled over for suspicion of DUI. The more knowledge you have, the less likely it is that you’ll make a mistake.
Should you find yourself dealing formal OUI criminal charges, don’t hesitate to implement a defense strategy to protect your legal rights.