By taking the driver’s seat after drinking or doing drugs, you pose a serious threat to yourself and any vehicle or person you pass. This is why every State has stringent laws against drunken driving and DUI. Law enforcement officials are always on the lookout for intoxicated drivers. If you’re pulled over for a DUI, here is what you need to do.
Speak Politely
It would be ideal if you could pull over properly and be as polite to the police as possible. In case the cops ask you to hand over your license or registration, you might want to do so without getting defensive. Refusal to cooperate might lead to additional charges.
Know What Your Rights Are
You have the right to decline from answering questions you are not comfortable with. The police may ask you questions like, “how many drinks did you consume?” You might want to remain silent since answering the question would be akin to admitting you are intoxicated.
You also have the right to politely decline any sobriety tests that the officers might ask you to take. While the cops can ask you to step out of your car, they do not have the power to force you to take a sobriety test.
Further, if the officers ask you to take a chemical test involving blood, urine, or breath, you have the right to decline. Declining a chemical test can lead to a one-year Administrative License Suspension, but being convicted with DUI will also land you the same suspension if not higher charges.
A DUI lawyer can be of significant help if you ever get pulled over for a DUI.
Consequences of DUI
The statistics show that around 28 people die every day in the United States due to drunk driving accidents. Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a serious offense and can have serious consequences, especially if you cause an injury or death.
- You will be asked to appear before the court on a prescribed date.
- Your punishment could involve losing your right to drive for a certain length of time.
- A part of your sentence will most likely include a fine.
- You could also be given a probation sentence.
- You could be asked to undergo an alcohol evaluation test to assess if you have an alcohol use disorder.
There is no easy way out of a DUI. While you will get your license back after a certain period of time, it will still put a dent in your driving records. The police may give you a restricted temporary license if your offense is not serious, and this is your first DUI charge. You will be able to use this license to get to and from work.
Expert Legal Assistance Could Help
Handling your first DUI by yourself could be stressful and challenging. Luckily you do have the option of hiring a lawyer. It is highly recommended you contact a lawyer as soon as you can. Your lawyer may be able to relieve you from the offense or reduce the intensity of punishments. Lawyers can also help you form defenses and organize the paperwork.
Author bio:
Ester Adams is a farmer of words in the field of creativity. She is an experienced independent content writer with a demonstrated history of working in the writing and editing industry. She is a multi-niche content chef who loves cooking new things.
