Driving Under the Influence Tips

If you have been drinking and are stopped by a police officer for a suspected DUI it is important to know what you should and shouldn’t do. Along with contacting a DUI Attorney, you should follow these tips on what to do when stopped for a DUI.

If over 21 with no prior DUI conviction:

• Be polite to the officer
• Do not submit to any field sobriety test including an Alcosensor
• Submit to chemical tests unless you were involved in an accident that included injuries (failing to do this can result in a suspended license with the inability to obtain a work permit)
• NEVER tell the officer how much alcohol you have consumed
• ALWAYS request an independent test of both breath and blood. These can be done at a hospital and a different police department.

If over 21 with a conviction of DUI in the last 5 years:

• Be polite to the officer
• Do not submit to any field sobriety test including an Alcosensor
• Do not submit to any chemical tests unless you have consumed 2 or less alcoholic drinks. (A second offense for DUI within 5 years will result in a suspension of driving privileges for 12 months)
• NEVER tell the officer how much alcohol you have consumed
• ALWAYS request an independent test of both breath and blood. These can be done at a hospital and a different police department

If under 21:

• Be polite to the officer
• Do not submit to any field sobriety test including an Alcosensor
• Refuse any chemical test, even one drink can put you over the legal limit for person’s under 21 (0.2%)
• Do not disclose how many alcoholic beverages you have consumed because this can result in a charge underage possession of alcohol

Following an arrest for DUI it is essential to know how to improve the outcome of your case before going to trial.

The following may help your DUI case:

• Gather good character references, employment history, community service, school grades, etc.
• Remain silent as to not incriminate yourself
• Retain a qualified criminal lawyer that specializes in DUI/DWI cases
• Keep a notebook with any witnesses or events that can be crucial to your case