What not to do if you are pulled over for DUI
Last week did a very informative post on tips to avoid getting a DUI. In this post we will go a little more in depth on that subject and go over a few things that you should definitely NOT DO if you are ever pulled over for DUI.
Drivers are routinely stopped by police on a regular basis. In some cases, particularly those involving late night traffic stops, an arrest is made and the driver is charged with driving under the influence (DUI). Other times, police and deputies implement roadblocks as DUI checkpoints. Drivers passing through DUI checkpoints are often questioned by an officer as he/she looks for signs that the driver is intoxicated or impaired.
In the Tampa – Orlando – Sarasota – Clearwater regions, if you had any alcohol to drink and then either pass through a DUI checkpoint or are pulled over, here are some Important Tips to remember:
- If you’re being pulled over, use your turn signal and slowly pull over to the side of the road. Do not keep your windows rolled up. Rather, roll them down before the officer approaches your vehicle.
- If you’re passing through a checkpoint, drive through slowly and obey any directions from the officer. Do not look away or attempt to “avoid” contact with an officer. Appearing distracted or evasive will only look suspicious to any officer observing your behavior and general demeanor. Pull to the side if directed to do so.
- Do not give lengthy explanations or volunteer unnecessary details. Answer the officer’s questions succinctly and directly. Rambling on excessively may heighten suspicion or show the officer that you’re nervous.
- Do not confuse the field sobriety test with the chemical test. If asked to submit to a field sobriety test, you have the right to either comply or refuse. However, Florida’s implied consent laws stipulate that, by operating a motor vehicle, every licensed driver consents to a chemical (breath or blood) test. Refusal of the chemical test will result in an automatic 1-year license suspension and hefty fines. If you’ve been drinking and this is your first DUI encounter, chances are that they outcome which results from failing the chemical test (breath or blood) will carry lighter consequences than a refusal altogether.
- Do not proceed without first retaining a competent DUI Defense lawyer! If you are arrested for DUI in the Tampa, Orlando, Sarasota or Clearwater regions, call an experienced DUI defense attorney immediately. As we already mentioned, an experienced DUI defense lawyer will work to reduce your charges and minimize the penalties and fines involved. If this is your only DUI and/or this is your first criminal offense, a qualified DUI defense lawyer can often negotiate a substantial reduction in the resulting sentence and penalties.
Do Not Waste Time – Call Finebloom and Haenel Today – Florida’s Experienced DUI Attorneys
If you have been arrested for a DUI in Tampa, Orlando, Clearwater or Sarasota you must retain the services of a lawyer experienced in DUI defense. The law offices of Finebloom and Haenel focus their practice in the area of DUI defense. We understand that people make mistakes. Drivers charged with DUI are everyday people. The law office of Finebloom and Haenel is here for you during this tough time. Put our focused experience and knowledge to work in defense of your DUI case! Call 1-800-FIGHT-IT
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