Each year, thousands of people are pulled over for suspicion of driving while under the influence. Seeing those red and blue flashing lights in your rearview mirror can be stressful for anyone, which is why it is important you understand what to do if you get pulled over for a DWI.
Look For a Safe Place to Pull Over
The instant a police officer makes the decision to pull you over, they begin observing any behavior you might exhibit that could point to intoxication. These observations are entered into a police report which can be used as evidence in your criminal trial and DMV hearing. Important behaviors officers note when pulling you over include:
- How You Pull Over: Did break abruptly or drive erratically?
- Where You Pull Over: Were you able to judge where a safe location to pull over may be?
Be Polite
Tension can be high whenever an officer pulls you over but do your best to conduct yourself in a polite manner. Many officers today have dash cams and body cams so it is a good practice to remember anything you do or say could potentially end up on video. Remember, being polite does not mean you have to answer all of the police officer’s questions. You may respectfully and politely decline to comment when the police officers ask where you are coming from and whether or not you have been drinking.
Don’t Lie, Don’t Answer Possibly Incriminating Questions
Many officers ask you questions when they pull you over in an attempt to collect evidence against you. Remember, the only information you need to provide to the police are your name, driver’s license and proof of insurance. As mentioned above, politely invoke your Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination when the police ask you anything other than your name, license, and proof of insurance information. Furthermore, you should never lie to the police.
Refuse a Field Sobriety Test
You have no legal obligation to take a field sobriety test. In fact, many field sobriety tests of been proven to be unreliable indicators of intoxication. Whether or not you pass is completely subjective to the officer administering the test. For this reason, our Fort Worth criminal defense attorney strongly recommends refusing a field sobriety test.
If You Are Arrested, Ask For a Fort Worth Criminal Defense Attorney
Our attorney has been practicing criminal defense for the last 20 years and has experience on both sides of the law as a former police lieutenant. Which is why we strongly suggest retaining an experienced Fort Worth criminal defense attorney should you face DWI charges.