Law enforcement officers who see violations of the law, such as an obscured license plate or a taillight that’s not working, are authorized to pull you over for a brief traffic stop to investigate. DUI attorneys know that if you’ve been drinking, the officer has good reason to ask more questions. If you get stopped for suspicion of DUI, what should you do?

Ask a DUI attorney and you’re bound to hear a helpful list of do’s and dont’s. In Ruidoso, NM, Gary C. Mitchell PC offers tips to the public to ensure they know their rights and responsibilities. Here are a few points to keep in mind if a traffic stop happens to you.

Do:

Pull Over

Using your turn signal, move your vehicle out of traffic to the side of the road quickly, but safely. If you delay, the officer may think you are attempting to flee or being uncooperative.

Stay Inside Your Car

A traffic stop creates a high level of tension for drivers and law enforcement officers. Motorists, passengers, and officers are more secure when you remain in your vehicle until you are told to get out. When the officer asks you to get out, turn your ignition off and remove the key.

Remain Calm & Polite

This is very important to keep in mind throughout the entire traffic stop. Being respectful will help diffuse the tension and make the process go more smoothly.

Don’t

Admit That You Drank Alcoholic Beverages

This is a point many people are unaware of. You actually have the right to decline to answer the officer’s questions about whether you drank something alcoholic.

Volunteer to Take Field Sobriety Tests

Law enforcement officers need evidence of intoxication. Your movements and conversation give them more evidence to justify an arrest. Remain in your car as long as you can.

Resist Taking the Breathalyzer Test

Criminal defense attorneys agree that refusing the chemical breath test generally works against you. However, skilled and seasoned DUI attorneys can defend refusal cases successfully.

Attorney Gary C. Mitchell PC offers wise counsel and aggressive advocacy that produces positive results. If you get stopped for DUI, contact this experienced and dedicated criminal defense attorney. Call his Ruidoso, NM, office at (575) 257-3070, or visit him online for more information on the firm and their legal services.