Pulled Over for a DUI? Here’s What to Know
Posted on September 26th, 2019 by Oddo & Babat, P.C.
Criminal Defense Lawyer
DUIs happen to many people, even the more careful ones. You had a nice dinner out with friends, stayed out later than you thought you would, and had that extra glass of wine or beer. You didn’t realize you shouldn’t have been behind the wheel until you saw those red and blue lights in your rearview mirror.
Naturally, it’s important to contact a DUI lawyer in Denver, CO for sound legal advice in a situation like this, but if you find you have been pulled over under the suspicion of driving under the influence, make sure you take the right actions at the onset to avoid making the whole thing worse.
Pull over right away
When you see the flashing lights of a police vehicle behind you, pull over immediately. Turn off the engine of your vehicle and put your keys on the dashboard, where the officer can see them easily as they approach the car. These actions indicate you will not try to drive away, and this also demonstrates to the officer that you are going to cooperate.
Communicate with the officer
Communicate with the police officer and don’t give them any reason to believe that you are trying to hide something. This means you should turn the radio off, put your cell phone away and put your hands on the top of the steering wheel. However, keep your seat belt on until the officer sees you in the vehicle. If you take it off before they approach the car, it will look like you weren’t wearing it while driving.
Don’t indict yourself
You should not lie to a police officer, but you’re not required to say things that will establish your guilt, either. If the officer asks you how many drinks you’ve had, you can say “I don’t recall the exact number.” If you give them an exact total, this could support charges against you that an alcohol blood or breath test would not.
Take the sobriety test
In most cases, refusing to take a sobriety test won’t work out for you. A refusal results in your license being suspending immediately in many states, usually for a year. A refusal can be used as evidence of your guilt in court. However, whether to take a test this is up to you, and keep in mind that you do have the legal right to refuse one. But again, a refusal usually results in your loss of your driving privileges for a year, even if the DUI case is eventually dismissed.
Stay respectful and calm
Staying respectful and calm in a situation like this is important. The police officer will respond to your emotional state, so if you behave angrily or combative, it could make the entire experience worse for you. Follow the officer’s instructions and avoid being emotional.
When you have been charged with a DUI, you could be facing jail time, the loss of your driver’s license, fines and other penalties and consequences. Work with an experienced DUI lawyer in Denver, CO to protect your rights and work toward the best outcome possible given your circumstances. There is a lot on the line when you’ve been charged with a DUI. Speak to a skilled DUI lawyer in Denver, CO about your case as soon as you can.
Thanks to Richard J. Banta, for their insight into criminal defense and what you need to know about a DUI.
I consulted with David the first time a couple of years ago on a serious matter that affected a very close member of my family. Not expecting a good experience from this serious situation coupled with an attorney consultation, the entire thing surprised me as it was pleasant, professional, and completely successful. We found him clear, direct, generous and extremely knowledgeable throughout the process. I give my very strongest recommendation
