If the police see you driving poorly, they might stop you to check if you are driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or other drugs. A lot can happen at a DUI stop, from being questioned by the police to being requested to take tests. Thus, it can be easy to make a costly mistake.
Here are two mistakes to avoid at a DUI stop.
1. Saying too much
Generally, it’s safest not to answer questions from the police without legal guidance, other than confirming your identity. You can invoke your right to remain silent by telling the police this is what you are going to do. If you just sit there and don’t answer, they’ll keep on throwing questions at you.
2. Refusing chemical tests
You can refuse to take a field sobriety test and a court cannot hold this against you. If, however, you refuse a chemical test when the police arrest you for DUI your driver’s license may be suspended for up to one year. Drivers basically give their consent to chemical tests the moment they get behind the wheel. If you are unhappy with the results or feel they are incorrect, you may be able to contest them later.
Further, if you don’t want to do a roadside chemical test but are willing to do one at the police station, you can tell the police. And they should not count this as a refusal.
What you do at a DUI stop matters. Consider getting legal help to understand your options.