Being pulled over can be a scary experience, especially for people that don’t have any legal experience or knowledge. Getting pulled over for driving under the influence, also known as DUI, can be even more daunting. How much is too much? Are you truly under the influence or are you not impaired at all? Will you go to jail? These are all questions people that have been pulled over for a DUI might ask themselves. Below are some of the many things to consider if you’ve been pulled over for DUI, and how you can prevent further legal complications.
Follow Lawful Orders
First and foremost, it’s crucial you follow any lawful orders when asked by the police. This includes pulling over calmly, being polite and respectful, and submitting to the officer checking your license and running a background. Even if you have an active warrant for your arrest or you feel you’ve been pulled over unlawfully, it’s always best to remain level-headed and continue to pull over calmly and safely.
Do not, under any circumstances, completely avoid pulling over or drive off thinking you can get away from the police. Most, if not all, police cruisers, are recording 24/7, and any sign of your license plate and car can be used to track you down later. Instead, try to remain as calm as possible if questioned.
Exercise Your Right to Remain Silent
Under your Miranda rights, you have the right to remain silent and refuse to answer certain questions when interrogated by the police. If you’re pulled over for DUI, some of the questions you should try to avoid or refuse to answer include:
- How much have you had to drink tonight?
- Are you too drunk to drive?
- Do you know why I pulled you over? (This is often a trick question designed so you can provide an admission of guilt to the officer)
- What kind of drinks did you have?
- Did you know you were driving erratically?
These are just some examples of the many questions police officers might make up on the spot to get you to admit to wrongdoing. Even if the question sounds innocent or the officer sounds like they have your best interests in mind, remember there’s a reason they pulled you over. They suspect you of DUI, and will continue to ask questions to make their job easier and, possibly, make an arrest after you admit guilt.
Don’t Submit to Field Sobriety Tests
Field sobriety tests are often used to prove to officers that you are highly impaired and unable to drive. These tests usually consist of walking in a straight line, remaining balanced, answering questions such as stating the alphabet, and eye movement tests. While these tests can potentially indicate signs of intoxication, these tests can also be inaccurate if you have issues with balance, coordination, and even injuries. For instance, if you have a back injury or sprained ankle, you might underperform on these tests, which can still lead to an arrest.
Don’t Do Any Chemical or Breathalyzer Tests
Breathalyzer tests are also highly inaccurate and can produce errors. In addition, chemical tests like blood tests might produce inaccurate results if their results are mixed up during the lab testing process. It’s never a good idea to submit to testing if the officer asks. Instead, refuse and handle your case in court later. You might be taken to jail and a court order might be granted to forcefully submit your blood test in a medical setting. Although this is a possibility, the more likely possibility is that your license will face a one-year suspension, which is still better than having a DUI on your record.
Call Cleveland Bail Bonds For Help
Cleveland Bail Bonds is the best resource to help you stay out of jail and get ready for your case. If you’re pulled over and taken to jail for DUI, call us so we can help you avoid spending time in jail and preparing for your upcoming DUI court hearing. We provide fast bail bonds in Lake Charles, LA, and will be here to support you day or night! Call now or reach out online.