What to Do if Pulled Over for Drunk Driving

If you want to cause your life to take a serious nosedive, just get pulled over for drunk driving.It's a recipe for ending up in jail. But approach the situation properly, and you might just be able to escape without getting burned.

First off, this article is in no way condoling drunk driving. It is an extremely dangerous thing to do that can result in the taking of human life - your own or someone else's. However, it is not unusual to be in a social setting involving moderate alcohol consumption that requires you to drive home. When this happens, you should follow the advice in this article to protect yourself as best you can.

When pulled over, the officer may request that you do one or more field sobriety tests to determine if you are intoxicated. Standing on one leg is an example of the kind of activity you will be asked to do. For individuals with certain physical limitations, these types of tests can be difficult regardless of alcohol consumption. Many people also feel that there is not enough scientific to prove these types of tests are accurate. Field sobriety tests are not legally required, so you should refuse if asked to do one.

Some tests, such as a breathalyzer, cannot be refused like field sobriety tests. You can be slapped with a serious penalty for refusing to take this type of test. Other testing options include testing your blood and urine. Breathalyzer tests are considered the least accurate of the three, so that is the one that actually be most advantageous from a legal perspective.

Do what you are asked to do, other than taking field sobriety tests, and be very polite. Do not admit that you may be intoxicated, and contact your attorney as soon as possible. The idea is certainly to limit the amount of evidence that you provide that incriminates you. The less there is going against you, the more likely the chances that your lawyer can get you off.

Again, the best way to avoid a DUI is to not drive drunk. However, the legal limit is low, and there may be times you could legally be in violation of the law even if you have drank very little. If you make the mistake of drinking too much and getting pulled over, the above advice will help you minimize your troubles.