What Happens When You are Pulled Over on Suspicion of DUI 

If you are here, you are in the right spot to learn about what happens when you are pulled over on suspicion of DUI. Often, you will end up having a great evening and the last thing you are thinking about is the laws surrounding a DWI and DUI charges. That is, until they are behind you with blue and red flashing lights. Keep reading to learn what you should do when pulled over on suspicion of a DUI. 

Ensure That You Pull Over 

You should start to slow down and then put on your turn signal. Once this is done, you are going to find a safe spot to pull over. Be sure to use turn signals and slow down until there is a safe spot to stop. 

Avoid making quick stops or doing anything that might be suspicious. The officer has already been watching for signs that you are under the influence before you have even been pulled over. 

Let the Police Officer Approach the Vehicle 

You will want to turn off the car at this point and ensure your window is rolled down. Make sure that your hands are put on the steering wheel. This will ensure that you are cooperating with the officer. 

Make sure that you do not reach for your ID or registration right away. Wait until the officer asks you for it. If you are moving around as the officer approaches, it could turn out bad. Officers do not know if you have a weapon in your vehicle or if you are hiding illegal items so they cannot see it. 

Be Nice – Do NOT Hold a Conversation 

This may sound weird but keep reading. You do not want to be rude to the officer, make sure that you are answering his/her questions. However, you should avoid talking to the officer as much as possible. Also, you should be avoiding asking questions to the officer. Do not ask, “Why was I pulled over?” If you are asked this question, say no. 

If the officer continues to ask questions, you are allowed to remain silent. All you need to do is state that you are choosing to remain silent at this time. If you have determined you would like an attorney, you can also state that at this time. 

You Can Say No – Learn When 

Not everyone knows that you can say no. I bet that you did not know that you do not need to do a field sobriety test or a breathalyzer. The officer may make it sound like you are required to do these tests, but you are not. 

If you take part in either of these, you are almost admitting guilt. The officers use these tests against you to determine if you are legal to drive or not. They also use these to build their case against you. 

If you say no to a breathalyzer test, in most states, your license is going to be suspended. This is going to happen even if you are not guilty. 

Call an Attorney 

Most states will allow you to have an attorney present before any tests are done once arrested. These tests could be blood for a BAC or breathalyzer. These are going to be done at the station. Make sure that you are remembering everything. You need to write down everything. 

Once you hire a trusted defense attorney, tell him/her all the things that happened and what you remember. Be completely honest and tell all details. Even the smallest details could help your case. Be upfront if you know that a mistake was made. The attorney can help you determine the best route with the least repercussions. 

Prepare Yourself For the Worst 

If you refuse the field sobriety test and the breathalyzer when you are pulled over, you can still be arrested. You are able to be arrested under probable cause. This can happen if the officer can smell alcohol, see an open alcohol container in the vehicle, or if they are noticing you are too impaired to drive. This could include you having red eyes, you may be slurring your speech, or even have a flush face. Officers are trained to see the signs of being under the influence. 

Tips 

This is a process and it takes time. You are going to want to remain as calm as you can during this process. If you are defensive or you do not cooperate, you are going to make it worse. 

The best way to avoid going to court over a DUI  at all is to avoid driving after drinking at all. Ensure that there is a designated driver. This will ensure that everyone gets home safely and no one will get a charge of driving under the influence. 

If you do not have a designated driver, make sure that you can call a taxi or even an Uber to ensure that you get home safe. Even if you drive to the bar or party, you can pick up your vehicle when you are sober. 

What Happens When You Are Pulled Over On Suspicion Of DUI 

The most important thing that you can do is ensure that you are cooperating with the police officers if you get pulled over. If you do not cooperate, you are going to make the situation worse and potentially add another charge. Make sure that you know your rights and you know how to handle the situation. Learn that you can say no. 

Be sure that you are aware of the laws and punishments. Be sure to follow all the items listed above when pulled over. Be sure that you contact an attorney as quickly as possible. The quicker you have a defense attorney, the better off you will be. If you are wondering what happens when you are pulled over on suspicion of a DUI, make sure that you contact Barkemeyer Law Firm today! A team of educated attorney’s will be at your side to help you with your case.