A DUI charge can lead to license suspension, incarceration and fines, which can follow drivers for a long time. Drunk driving is also one of the biggest causes of fatal car accidents. Many people believe they can avoid DUI charges if they use a technique they were told or read online.
Unfortunately, many people don’t fact-check information online. This can cause people to get DUI charges when they may have otherwise avoided doing so. Here are a few common DUI myths that you should avoid:
Myth #1: You can avoid the police if you speed
Truth: It’s a simple misconception that people can get away with drunk driving if they speed. The reality is that drivers may increase the danger to themselves and others by speeding while drunk. Speeding drivers have less control over their vehicles and drunkenness can lower drivers’ reaction speed – a deadly combo.
Myth #2: You have to answer the police’s questions
Truth: The police may ask drivers suspected of drunk driving to answer questions. These questions are often used to gather more evidence against a driver. Many people believe they are required by law to answer police questions.
Under the Fifth Amendment, drivers can refuse to answer questions that might lead to self-incrimination.
Myth #3: Coffee can clear your blood alcohol content
Truth: Many people believe that coffee is the fastest way to remove alcohol from the body or eliminate the effects of alcohol. In theory, this would work since alcohol is a depressant and coffee is a stimulant. In reality, people may experience the effects of coffee and alcohol, which may lead to erraticism, slowed judgment and impaired muscle control.
You shouldn’t let a DUI myth be the cause of a criminal charge. You may need to reach out for legal help after a traffic stop to learn about how you can create a defense.