Mistakes Drivers Make During A DUI Traffic Stop

There’s nothing fun about a traffic stop. Even if you’re able to avoid trouble, it will still bring quite a bit of stress to your life for the time being. This is even more so the case if you’re pulled over for suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol.

There are things you should and shouldn’t do during a DUI traffic stop. By taking the right approach, you increase the odds of driving away from the scene with nothing more than a warning.

Here are some of the most common mistakes drivers make during a DUI traffic stop:

• Saying too much: Rule number one is to keep your thoughts to yourself. No matter how much the officer presses you, don’t admit that you’ve been drinking. Even if you have the best intentions, you could let something slip.
• Explaining your legal rights: You have legal rights and you’re well aware of them. And so is the officer. You don’t have to explain what they can and can’t do. This comes across as disrespectful, which gives the officer more reason to search for a violation of the law.
• Disobeying orders: For example, if the officer tells you to put your hands on the wheel and remain in your seat, do so. They’re in control for the time being, so you need to obey all their orders.
• Resisting arrest: You do your best to prevent this, but if the officer believes you’re under the influence, such as after the failure of a field sobriety test, don’t fight back. Listen to what they’re telling you, stay quiet and take detailed mental notes of how you’re being treated. You never know when something will happen that you can use to your advantage in court.

Even if you’re charged with driving under the influence, you’ll still have your day in court. When it arrives, you must have a defense strategy to lean on. This can help prevent a conviction and the consequences associated with it, such as a fine and license suspension.

The fewer mistakes you make, the better you’ll feel about your ability to prevent serious criminal charges.