What to Do During a Traffic Stop For DUI Suspicion

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