Be Careful When Talking To The Police During A DUI Stop

Regardless of whether you believe you are actually guilty of a DUI or not, it's important to not speak with a police officer until you have spoken to a DUI lawyer. Then, you will be able to start your case off on the right foot.

How to Pull Over Your Car

When you discover that the police officer has turned on their flashing lights, you will need to pull over by the side of the road. Because the officer will typically approach you from the driver's side window, make sure to leave space there so the officer can approach you.

What You Must Provide to the Officer

Roll down your windows and avoid making any sudden movements. Make sure to keep your hands on the steering wheel. You will be required to provide your:

• License
• Registration
• Proof of insurance

Otherwise, you are allowed to invoke your right to remain silent and you may ask to speak with an attorney. However, there are some rights you do not have. For example, if the officer asks you to step out of the vehicle, you are obligated to do so.

When to Comply with a Sobriety Test

Before you are arrested, the police officer might ask if you would like to participate in a field sobriety test or a breathalyzer test. You are actually allowed to refuse this test as long as you are not already under arrest. However, once you are under arrest under suspicion of having committed a DUI, you will be required to comply with a test under the implied consent laws.

Failure to comply with the test will have different consequences depending on the state in which you reside. However, most often, you will have your license suspended. However, even if you comply with one of these tests and fail, an attorney may be able to help you prove later on that the test was not performed properly.

Why You Should Minimize Your Interactions with the Police

Even if you didn't do anything wrong, you will only want to speak with the police as little as possible. First, it is easy to accidentally say something that could be misinterpreted and later used to incriminate you. Second, police officers often make mistakes and you will need a lawyer who will fight for your rights.

By being familiar with your case, the drunk driving attorney will be better prepared to defend you if the prosecutor decides to press charges and you must then fight to be acquitted in court.

For more information, contact DUI attorney near you.