Mistakes To Avoid After Being Pulled Over For Drunk Driving

After going to a party, you may have felt you did not have that much to drink and decided to drive home. While on the road, you may have been swerving a little or driving too fast, causing you to be pulled over. If you are under suspicion of driving drunk, make sure you avoid the following mistakes.

Talking Too Much

After being pulled over by the police, you may be tempted to try to talk your way out of the situation by claiming you have not been drinking or even going into every detail of the evening. However, talking too much could get you into worse trouble than that which you already find yourself.

If you start babbling to the officer, you may reveal too much about your evening and accidentally say something that would confirm their suspicions that you are intoxicated. Also, while you may not realize it, you may be slurring or using the wrong words, which would give the officer even more evidence against you, as these are signs of being drunk.

However, you also do not want to stay stoic and refuse to talk at all. Make sure you answer any questions the officer may pose but just do not go into further detail than you need.

Agreeing to a Field BAC Test

While the officer is questioning you, they may bring up the need to do a breathalyzer test to see if your blood alcohol content (BAC) is over the legal limit. However, you should know that you are well within your rights to refuse the field test and request to have your BAC tested at the police station.

There are two reasons why you should only agree to a BAC test in the station instead of the field. First, there is always the chance that the officer may make a mistake when administering the test. If this happens, your initial BAC may be recorded as higher than it actually is, which could cause you more legal problems and possible immediate suspension of your license.

Second, if you insist on waiting until you go to the station, this gives the alcohol in your system a chance to dissipate somewhat. It could result in a lower BAC level, which could make a difference when you face the judge in the courtroom.

Avoiding the above mistakes after you are pulled over for driving under the influence of alcohol can help increase your chances of being treated fairly when your court date arrives. Contact an OWI lawyer to discuss your case so you can have legal representation as soon as possible.


Share