Just In Case You Get Pulled Over And Youve Been Drinking

It's late; you're driving home after having a few drinks hours before. All of a sudden you catch a glimpse of blue and red lights in your rearview mirror- you're being pulled over. What do you do? What don't you do? Now, easier said than done, but the first priority is to remain calm. Nothing is set in stone yet, and it may just be a busted out tail light.

Pull over as soon as safely possible, and get ready for the officer. Turn off the car, the radio, and put your cellphone down. Get your license and registration ready for the officer. And whatever you do, please stay in the car.

It makes police officers very uneasy when you come out of the car unprompted, as their lives could be put at risk if you have a loaded weapon. Most importantly, though, act respectfully; do not give the officer a reason to arrest you. Shouting belligerently to an officer will turn a suspected DUI into an arrest, so it's in your best interest to remain calm and courteous. "Have you been drinking?" Depending on the time of day, where you're stopped you're likely to get this question.

Now, you aren't obligated to answer the question. In fact, you could choose to plead the fifth and not answer the question. However, that's a risk you'll take, as you're more likely to be questioned more aggressively. Honesty will not get you out of a DUI. In fact, divulging that you just spent the past four hours at a bar because you broke up with your boyfriend is more than likely going to be used against you in court, so rather than risk incrimination, politely decline to answer the question. If the officers ask you to exit the car, and do one of the standard field tests(walking a straight line, following a penlight).

Understand that your rights do allow you to refuse these tests, and it can't be held against you. Don't automatically assume you have to submit. Things are different about chemical tests, like a breathalyzer or blood or urine tests. Most states have a requirement of your license that you have to give one of these if you are asked.

Check your state laws to verify what is required in your state. Even if you are found guilty by the officer, continue to remain calm. Throughout the ordeal it is in your best interest to cooperate with the officer. Do not actively incriminate yourself by arguing or becoming hostile.

Rather than physically fight the officer, wait patiently and fight the DUI in the courtroom with an experienced attorney- the outcome will be much more favorable.

Been arrested for a DUI? Looking for a competent DUI Attorney? Lee Lockett is a Jacksonville Florida DUI Attorney specializing in Jacksonville Criminal Defense and DUI.