A DWI traffic stop can be upsetting, because you want to protect yourself and also want to make sure you don’t end up facing unfair charges. You don’t want to deal with the police—you just want to get home and avoid further issues.
There are some things you can do to make a DWI traffic stop easier on yourself. There are also mistakes you could make that could hurt your case. Here are three mistakes to try to avoid at all costs, so you have the best chance of walking away without a conviction.
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Talking too much
The first thing that can really hurt you is talking too much. The police officer is looking for reasons to investigate you for a DWI. Telling them that you just came from the bar or that you’re drunk is a surefire way to draw their suspicions and end up taking a Breathalyzer test. Only answer with the bare minimum when you’re asked questions. For example, you can give your date of birth or name, but you don’t have any obligation to disclose where you came from or where you’re going.
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Trying to talk your way out of it
If you know you made a mistake, you might admit to it to the police. Don’t do that. Don’t try to explain why you are driving recklessly or state that you know you made an error. Ask the officer if there is a problem, and let them do the talking.
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Don’t agree to do field sobriety testing
You have to take a Breathalyzer test in most cases or risk losing your license, but you don’t have to agree to do field sobriety tests. You can express that you don’t want to take those tests but are willing to do the Breathalyzer test if you want.
Why refuse the unnecessary tests? They simply allow officers to gather more evidence of intoxication.
If you are arrested, remember that you have a right to speak with your attorney. There is an opportunity for you to focus on your DWI defense and take action to protect your rights.
