Imagine driving down the street, just to find yourself quickly closing in on a DUI checkpoint.
While this may not be a big deal if you haven’t been drinking, things change if you’ve consumed at least one alcoholic beverage in the recent past.
Here are some of the many mistakes you need to avoid at a DUI checkpoint:
Don’t be disrespectful in any way: You don’t want to give the officer more reason to pull you from your vehicle or ask additional questions. Be courteous and respectful at all times, regardless of how you’re treated.
Don’t make an illegal U-turn: It’s legal to turn around to avoid a DUI checkpoint, but you can’t make an illegal maneuver to do so. Don’t ever lose sight of basic traffic laws.
Don’t attempt to explain your rights: Even though you may not like it, DUI checkpoints are legal. You shouldn’t waste your breath in an attempt to explain to the officer that he or she is violating your rights, as this will only raise suspicions.
Don’t leave alcohol containers in plain view: You should never drive with an open container in your vehicle. Even if you’re transporting alcohol, leave it in your trunk.
If you run into trouble at a DUI checkpoint, you shouldn’t hesitate to learn more about your legal rights. Even if you are charged with driving under the influence of alcohol, it doesn’t necessarily mean you will be convicted.
You need to understand everything from your arrest to your charges, as this will help you implement the right defense strategy.
Source: FindLaw, “9 No-Nos at DUI Checkpoints,” accessed June 07, 2018