Being pulled over by a police officer can make you feel incredibly helpless because you do not know what to do to improve your outcome in the situation. That's why it helps to know the following tips if you are ever pulled over and accused of driving under the influence when you are not.

Don't Move Unless Instructed

It's very important that you follow the basic rules for being pulled over during any traffic stop. You pull off to the side of the road, roll down your window, put your hands on the steering wheel, and do not move until instructed to do so by the police officer. Not only does this keep you safe, but it doesn't give the police officer anything to be suspicious about your behavior. 

Only Answer Questions Asked Of you

You always have the right to remain silent, so be sure to use it during a traffic stop. You should not say anything to the officer other than answers to the questions being asked of you, and the answers should be short and concise. You do not want to say anything to help the police officer build their case against you, which can often happen when people start rambling at a police officer during a traffic stop. 

Know You Can Refuse A Field Sobriety Test

Many people do not realize that they can actually refuse to take a field sobriety test. If a police officer is asking you to take a field sobriety test, it is because they think that you may be driving while intoxicated and are looking for evidence to arrest you. If you do not perform that field sobriety test perfectly, then you could be giving the police officer the evidence that they need to move forward with the arrest.

Ask For A Chemical Test

It's possible that the police officer will want you to take a preliminary alcohol screening test at the side of the road to see if you are driving while intoxicated. Be aware that these tests can be inaccurate, and be another way that a police officer gathers evidence that leads to getting a DUI. If you are asked to take a preliminary alcohol screening test, your next step should be to ask for a chemical test instead at the police station.

Taking a chemical test is the most accurate way to see if you have alcohol in your system. This involves taking a blood sample or breathing into a device to get a measured reading of your current blood alcohol levels. If you know that you are below the legal limits for your blood alcohol to safely drive a vehicle, then a chemical test will clear up the situation.

Running into DUI-related legal problems because you were arrested? Reach out to DUI attorneys in your area for assistance. 

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