Getting pulled over on suspicion of DUI is a heart-chilling experience. But if you don’t keep your wits, you could land in more trouble than anticipated. Even if you feel you were unfairly targeted or haven’t had a drop of alcohol, engaging in any of the following actions will complicate your situation and make your defense more challenging. Here are three things you should refrain from doing.
1. Becoming emotional.
Your nerves may be rattled when a police officer approaches your vehicle and starts to ask you questions, but shouting, panicking, begging, resisting, or responding angrily will not work in your favor. Instead, take a deep breath and be prepared to behave as calmly and politely as possible.
2. Admitting to drinking.
Do not volunteer information or make any statement that self-incriminates you. You might be tempted to explain that you “only had one beer” or that your last drink was hours ago, but the police can use these seemingly innocent statements to establish probable cause that you were DUI. If a police officer asks if you’ve been drinking and you have, politely tell them you have been advised not to answer this question or that you prefer not to answer. The Fifth Amendment protects you from self-incrimination–don’t hesitate to use this protection.
3. Being combative with police.
Under no circumstances should you be verbally or physically combative with police officers. A DUI charge is bad enough; risking additional, potentially more serious charges—like resisting arrest or assault on an officer—can quickly escalate your situation from bad to worse. You could even risk injury or death if your actions cause the officers to fear for their safety.
As mentioned above, your best course of action is to be respectful and comply with any directives from the police.
Tenn And Tenn, P.A., New Hampshire DUI Attorneys
If you are stopped or arrested on suspicion of DUI in New Hampshire, you should immediately contact an experienced DUI attorney. The skilled attorneys at Tenn And Tenn, P.A. are ready to help you fight the charges and achieve the best possible outcome. We help clients throughout the state: Manchester, Portsmouth, Derry, Nashua, Bedford, and beyond. Call 1-888-511-1010 for your free consultation today, or contact us online.