The short answer is yes. In fact, one such case took place in New Hampshire recently. But before exploring the particulars of this case, we can explore the ways in which speed and other traffic violations can result in DUI charges and why.
Traffic Stops & DUIs
Simply put, reasonable suspicion of criminal activity gives way to DUI charges. The police need a reason to pull you over. When you speed, run a red light, drive with a broken tail light, or make an illegal turn, for example, you are all but inviting a police officer to pull you over. If your behavior creates suspicion that you are driving under the influence, regardless of whether or not that suspicion is entirely justified, then the officer may ask you if you have been drinking or ask you to complete field sobriety tests.
At a traffic stop, you are not legally required to do anything more than provide your license and registration, but many people do not know this. They usually comply with the officer’s requests and questions in good faith, thinking their compliance will ultimately help them in the courtroom. In actuality, they are hurting their own case, handing the prosecution the evidence needed to stamp their record with a DUI conviction.
The first step in avoiding DUI charges is to never give the officer a reason to pull you over. If their reasoning was shaky or tenuous, your DUI defense attorney may be able to get your charges dropped. Law enforcement officials must adhere to a very specific set of guidelines, otherwise they are encroaching on your rights and the prosecution cannot proceed with your charges. A speeding violation will almost always “check out” as a valid reason to have stopped your vehicle. If you have been drinking, or the officer gets the impression that you have been drinking, a DUI arrest could potentially follow. It is up to you to hire an experienced New Hampshire DUI attorney to combat these charges and protect your rights in court.
Case Example: Speeding Violation Leads to DUI
In a recent New Hampshire DUI case, Hooksett local Michelle Doherty, 51, was arrested for DUI after a speeding violation on Hooksett road prompted an officer to pull her over. The arrest occurred on February 18th, with the officer stopping her vehicle just after 7:15 near Water Works Drive. “Doherty was asked if she was willing to take field sobriety tests, which she agreed to, and was subsequently arrested,” he alleged. “Doherty was transported to the Hooksett Police station where she agreed to a breath test and the test resulted in a BrAC of 0.13.” She was processed and later released on personal recognizance bail. Her court date in Hooksett District Court was March 1.
Doherty’s case demonstrates the moving violations leading to a DUI arrest, also illustrating how good faith compliance without a full awareness of the consequences can be damning to any individual suspected of DUI.
If you were arrested and charged with driving under the influence in New Hampshire, immediately contact New Hampshire DUI attorney at Tenn And Tenn, P.A. for a free consultation of your case.