One of the worst things you can do if you’re accused of a DUI is to cause trouble. An arresting officer is just doing their job by attempting to get you off the road and to the police station.
While you may be offended or even right to think that they’re violating your rights or arresting you without cause, it’s important to remember that the way you act during a traffic stop and arrest can affect your case. Being unreasonable, aggressive or threatening can even result in further charges.
Did you know that threatening or striking a police officer is a crime?
Even if it’s in your own defense, attacking a police officer is sure to get you into trouble and result in additional charges, such as assaulting a police officer. This also makes it more likely for a DUI charge to stick, since they can use your aggression or unreasonable behavior to show that you were not acting normally and may have been intoxicated.
To avoid trouble with the law, follow these tips during any traffic stop
To avoid trouble, the first thing to do is to have your license and registration ready for the officer. Roll down the window enough to speak to the officer, but don’t open your door or roll down your window all the way.
If the officer asks you if you’ve been drinking, you don’t have to answer. If they ask you to get out of your vehicle, you can do so. They may ask you to take a Breathalyzer test. If you refuse, you’ll likely lose your license. The typical rule is to take the test. However, if you know you’ll blow a percentage over the aggravated DUI limit, it’s best to refuse and avoid that additional charge.
If the officer states that they are going to arrest you and take you to the police station, it’s best to go quietly and to ask for your attorney. Being reasonable in this situation can help, because you’ll be able to show that you were in the right mind, reasonable and not acting reckless or aggressive toward those around you.
Simply showing that you’re a calm, rational person can help your case significantly and will make your attorney’s job much easier if you’re accused of a DUI. Your attorney will look into the case and identify any issues with the arrest or consequent actions of the officers. From there, they’ll help you defend yourself.