What Happens at a DUI Stop?

By Pat Geddie | Leave a Comment

Being pulled over for DUI is a frightening experience. The consequences of a conviction can impact many areas of your life. Here is what happens when police pull over a motorist for suspicion of DUI.

The police officer will ask for your license and registration just like they would in any other traffic stop. They may attempt to perform a sobriety check by asking you to get out of the car and walk in a straight line. You are under no legal obligation to comply with this request, nor should you. The police officer may also try to ask you questions that you do not have to answer. When you decline to answer, you should still be as respectful as possible. The more you say, the more that you may possibly incriminate yourself.

However, you do have a legal requirement to take a Breathalyzer test if the police officer asks. The failure to do so would result in an automatic suspension of your driver’s license. The police could still take you into custody for suspicion of drunk driving and obtain a court order to take a blood sample that could still prove a DUI case. You must make a quick decision on the spot whether to comply with the request for a Breathalyzer test.

If the police have probable cause to believe that a crime was committed, they will arrest you and take you into custody. You would be taken to the police station for processing. Your car would be towed and impounded.

Contact a Melbourne DUI Defense Attorney Today

Harnage Law PLLC can defend you if you have been arrested and charged with driving under the influence. When you are facing criminal charges, you can send us a message online or call us today at 321.549.7886.