The flashing lights coming from a police car are your first indication that you may be in serious trouble.
A law enforcement official has detained you over suspicion of drunk driving. As they speak to you, they are actually conducting an active investigation. Whether you realize it or not, you are not only in custody but also helping the cop build a case.
Everything you do and, more importantly, can be used against you. Consider yourself under the microscope of law enforcement.
Ohio is an “implied consent” state, meaning that if you turn down the breath or blood test, your license will be automatically suspended for the refusal. If you want to maintain your legal ability to drive, submitting to the testing is necessary.
Under a watchful eye
Remaining silent, while your right, clashes with cooperating with the officer. You should turn over your driver’s license, registration, and proof of insurance upon request. Documents should be easy to locate. If you need to get out of the car to secure those documents, the officer will watch your every move to detect the possibility of alcohol in your system.
Casual conversation is one thing, but oversharing can compromise your criminal case. Every word is documented and included in discovery. Questions about where you were prior to the pullover and the use of medication should be off-limits. Should they ask, politely decline to answer.
Even after all those careful steps, you could find yourself arrested and handcuffed. Keeping your cool is vital. Aggressive behavior will only make a bad situation worse. While it is understandable to be frustrated, especially if it is your first arrest, do not act out.
Whether you have too much to drink or not, a traffic stop can be a harrowing experience. It is essential to know that a criminal charge does not mean you will be automatically convicted.
The post DUI Do’s and Don’ts first appeared on The Law Offices of Saia, Marrocco & Jensen Inc..