EspaňolCareless speeding, an accidental swerve, or neglected blinkers are all cause for police to assume that a driver might be intoxicated. Getting pulled over on suspicion of a DUI is nerve-racking, even if an individual is completely sober. That is why The Blumenreich Law Firm is here to help ease some of the uneasiness and unfamiliarity that may occur between an officer and the driver.
Drunk driving is a serious offense that can permanently effect one’s life if not handled correctly. Whether for a misdemeanor or a felony DUI, it is essential to be prepared when pulled over for intoxication. This way, the driver is less caught off guard and can handle the situation with more confidence and composure.
Here are ten things to expect if you are pulled over on suspicion of a DUI:
- The police will signal for the driver to pull over, either by flashing their lights or using a siren
- The officer will first ask for a name. This is how they determine if the driver has had any past DUIs or charges
- Be ready to provide a driver’s license, registration and proof of insurance
- Expect the police to ask questions such as “Have you been drinking?” or “How much alcohol have you had?”
- In most cases, they will not read your Miranda rights
- They may advise the driver to get out of their vehicle
- They will look for signs of inebriation (the smell of alcohol on the breath, fidgety movements, slurred words, etc.)
- They may ask the suspect to perform sobriety tests, including walking in a straight line, counting backwards and/or standing on one leg without falling over. These tests are all designed to check a person’s coordination
- They may ask the individual to take a roadside Breathalyzer test in order to determine if the alcohol level is .08 or higher, or they may ask the driver to take a blood test that is conducted at a police station
- Depending on the results as well as the driver’s compliance with the above, the driver may be released or they may be arrested
There is never an excuse to drink and drive; you should always call a cab or have a trusted, sober friend take you home if you have been drinking. However, in situations where a driver has been wrongfully charged with a DUI and arrested, be sure to contact Josh Blumenreich. With harsh penalties and even stricter DUI laws, it is vital that you work with an experienced DUI lawyer to ensure that your case is handled with the utmost care; we are here to help you.