What to Do During a Traffic Stop For DUI Suspicion

Being pulled over on suspicion for DUI can be a scary thing. Whether you think you’re guilty or not, there are a few things that you can do during a traffic stop that will help you in the event that you are arrested or charged with DUI.Do not volunteer any information to the police officer. You are required to provide your identification and proof of insurance, but you do not need to answer when the officer asks you how much you’ve had to drink. Do not answer any of the police officer’s questions without your DUI lawyer present. In fact, it is perfectly acceptable to politely state that you will not answer any questions before you speak with a DUI attorney.Decline to take any field sobriety tests, but do it politely. Field sobriety tests are not required by the law, and will rarely help you in court. Be aware that these tests are not necessary for the officer to arrest you on suspicion of DUI. If you are asked to perform field sobriety tests, the officer has probably already made up his mind to arrest you. The purpose of the test is only to give the police evidence against you that they would not otherwise have.Be polite to the officer who has stopped you; your conduct during the stop and arrest can have an effect on the outcome of your case. Be calm and collected at all times. Though being polite will not likely get you off the hook, being confrontational will only make your situation worse. Never lie to the officer. If you tell the officer you have only had one drink, but your blood tests shows that you have clearly had several, you will not look like a credible defendant in court. If you feel that you must answer the officer’s questions, be truthful.If the officer believes that you have been driving while intoxicated, you will likely be arrested. If this is the case, is usually in your best interest to take any breath or blood tests asked of you. If you refuse, your driver’s license will be suspended. As soon as possible following a traffic stop for DUI suspicion, contact an experienced DUI lawyer. An attorney can advise you of your rights, prepare your defense, and help you contest your license suspension with the DMV, which must generally be done within a week or two following your arrest.Unfortunately, many people seal their fate through their actions during a traffic stop for DUI suspicion. If you are pulled over on suspicion of driving while under the influence, be polite, but do not divulge any information that may be used against you in court. Following this course of action may not prevent you being arrested on suspicion of DUI, but it will give the state as little evidence as possible against you, making it easier for your DUI attorney to fight for your acquittal.