Just because a police officer is suspicious that you’re under the influence of alcohol doesn’t make it true. However, if it leads to a traffic stop, it’s critical that you know what you should do, shouldn’t do and how to protect your safety and legal rights.
While no two traffic stops are the same, anyone pulled over for suspicion of DUI should follow these tips:
- Don’t start to protest: Under the influence or not, don’t begin by protesting and telling the officer that you’re sober. It makes you appear under the influence, even if you can’t remember the last time you consumed an alcoholic beverage.
- Don’t say too much: You can answer some questions, such as “can I see your license and registration?” A simple yes will do. However, when it comes to more detailed questions, such as those pertaining to your current state, you’re best off thinking twice before you answer. For example, if the officer asks if you’ve been drinking, a simple no will do. Anything else is too much, as it could lead you down a dangerous path.
- Don’t threaten the officer with legal action: You have every right to feel frustration if you don’t think you’re being treated fairly, but this isn’t the time to go overboard with your approach. Telling the officer they’re wrong and threatening them with legal action won’t get you anywhere. It may even give them more reason to believe that you’re intoxicated.
- Follow the officer’s prompts if put under arrest: At this point, there’s nothing else you can do. You’re under arrest, so remain quiet, don’t fight back and take mental notes in regard to your treatment. While an arrest will lead to formal DUI charges, it doesn’t necessarily result in a conviction.
Police will never stop looking for people who appear to be driving under the influence of alcohol. And for that reason, they could pull you over when you’re sober or your blood alcohol level content is under the legal limit.
Regardless of the circumstances and outcome, you should always do whatever you can to protect your legal rights.
