What to do if you are pulled over for a DUI

On Behalf of | Apr 18, 2023 | Criminal defense

Encounters with police tend to be unnerving. Even if you have done nothing wrong, you may feel guilt or insecurity.

This is especially true if the police pull you over for a DUI. Therefore, these are a few things you should do in these situations.

Find a safe place to pull over

Avoid pulling over in dangerous areas. You want to protect both yourself and the police officers. Use your signal and move to the side of the road or to a side street as quickly as possible.

Act in a respectful manner

The police include all their observations in their report, so act with respect. Avoid hostility or rudeness of any kind. Stay in your vehicle and roll your window down as you wait for the police to approach. Avoid sudden movements and do not reach for anything during this time. Place your hands on the wheel at the 10 and two positions. Then, when they ask for your information, tell them where you will reach or search for it.

Stay silent

When the police ask you questions, you should answer those that will not incriminate you. For example, you answer your name and where you want to go, but avoid answering whether you have had anything to drink. Avoid nervous chatter because you could admit things you did not intend to admit. Avoid lying.

Avoid field testing

When the officer asks you to submit to a breathalyzer or other field sobriety test, respectfully decline. You may have your license revoked, but many things can cause a failure on these tests. Wait until a judge requires a blood test after the officers arrest you.

For the best results, learn your legal rights. Then, remain calm as you interact with the officers.