Let’s get this out of the way: Driving under influence is not a minor infraction with the law. Rather, it is a serious criminal offense. If you are indicted, charged and convicted for drunk driving in Georgia, you will be having a myriad of legal and personal consequences to contend with. And some of these consequences can hang over your head for the rest of your life.
Law enforcement officers are trained to look out for signs of drunk driving. Thus, if they have reasonable suspicion that you could be intoxicated behind the wheel, they will stop you for further investigation. It helps to understand that your case begins right there and then. This means that what you do or say can impact the outcome of your case should the matter go to trial.
That said, here are two things you do not want to do during a DUI stop:
Talking too much
It is normal to be anxious when you are pulled over by the police. However, one of the most costly mistakes you want to avoid during a DUI stop is giving up too much information. Statements like, “officer, I only had a glass of wine over dinner” or, “yes, I had some beer, but that was three hours ago” will not help your case. If the police ask you if you have been out drinking, do not admit or deny anything. Instead, politely advise them that you would rather not give a statement without your lawyer. Even if the police do not recite your Miranda Rights, do understand that you have the right to exercise them.
Refusing to cooperate
During the DUI stop, the police might instruct you to take the breathalyzer test as part of their evidence-gathering process. Whereas you can refuse to take this test, it is important to understand that doing so has consequences. Thus, before refusing the test, find out if you are ready to face these consequences.
If you are pulled over on DUI suspicion, it is important that you understand your defense options.