You’ve worked hard to create a successful life for yourself. You did a great job, owned a car, paid your bills on time, and had no prior criminal record.
And then, one night at a bar leads to a DUI that could change everything. According to the NHTSA, drunk driving accidents cause 10,000 fatalities annually, or nearly one-third of all fatal traffic accidents. If you want to know how to fight a DUI, keep reading this guide.
Things to Do If You’re Stopped While Driving Under the Influence
If you’re stopped while under the influence, it’s important to remember that you still have rights. Knowing and following proper steps can help in fighting against a DUI charge.
Remain Calm
If you are pulled over for a suspected DUI, stay in your car and keep your hands where the officer can see them. Speak frankly and coherently when you answer questions.
Follow the Officer’s Instructions
Follow the officers’ verbal commands. Provide them with your driver’s license, registration, and proof of insurance when asked.
Be Polite and Cooperative
When interacting with police officers or prosecutors, try to stay respectful and courteous. Doing so will prove your cooperation and can help to improve the outcome of your case.
Politely Decline a Roadside Sobriety Test
Make sure to be respectful and courteous while refusing the sobriety test. It is important to remember that officers are only doing their job, but your safety and rights are of utmost importance. Pull over to a safe spot and inform the officer that you will be declining to take the test.
Several Techniques That Lawyers May Use to Fight a DUI
Facing a DUI charge can be a daunting and frightening experience. If this is your first time facing a DUI, it is important to have adequate representation for the best possible outcome. Hiring highly rated DUI defense lawyers is important as they know several techniques that may be used to help you in fighting a DUI charge.
Questioning the Accuracy of Breathalyzer Tests
Many factors can affect the accuracy of a breathalyzer test. These include calibration, operator error, and medical conditions of the person being tested.
A skilled DUI lawyer can use testimony from medical experts to challenge the prosecution’s results. Experts may be able to explain to the jury why the test could have produced inaccurate results, such as someone having acid reflux or diabetes.
Challenging Field Sobriety Tests
FSTs (Field Sobriety Tests) are a series of physical and mental tests that measure an individual’s coordination and level of impairment. Attorneys may argue that the FSTs were administered incorrectly, meaning that the results could be inaccurate or incomplete. They may also point out that the officer observed the individual for a short period, leading to skewed results.
Question the Legality of the Stop
A police officer must have reasonable suspicion to stop a person, such as observing erratic driving or other violation of laws. Experienced lawyers may be able to assert that the initial stop was made without a valid reason, making the arrest invalid and its consequences inadmissible.
Learn How to Fight a DUI
You should always take extra precautions and learn how to fight a DUI. Keep in mind that the consequences of a DUI can be severe and long-lasting. Keep this guide handy, and remember that safety always comes first.
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