Top 3 DUI Tips
Of course you should not be drinking and driving, but in case you get pulled over and are suspect of DUI, there are a few things you should know when dealing with a police officer.
1. Don’t make excuses for drinking alcohol then driving
Commonly, a driver who has been drinking will think that the police offer use discretion and make allowances for them if the excuse is deemed worthy. The driver might say something like, “It’s been a long week, officer,” or “I”ve had a bad day,” or, he may even make up some big sad story for why THIS time is a unique reason that makes it ok to drink and drive.
The officer does not care, nor will he use any discretion whether or not you have a good excuse. The fact is that he is responsible to enforce DUI laws and if you’ve been drinking and driving, it is a very serious offense. Making light of the situation may only aggravate or insult the officer.
1. Don’t admit to drinking any alcohol
If you admit to the police officer that you’ve had even one drink, or one beer, it makes your case much harder to fight in court. Don’t make this simple mistake. Tell the officer that you simply do not want to say anything without first speaking with an attorney, with all due respect.
1. Don’t try to bargain with the police officer
“How about I leave my car here and call a cab?” No. That will not work. The officer will not take into account how close to home you may be, or if you have a friend you can call right away. The fact is that you were driving while intoxicated and no matter what you do now, it is too late to undo that fact. And whatever you do, don’t ask the police officer for a ride home.
Yes, the police are in the business of catching people who break the laws. Use the law to help you out if you think you may get charged with a DUI and say as little as possible. Above all, don’t admit to any guilt or you’ve lost already. Remember, you have the right to say nothing, the burden of proof is not on you, it is on the officer.