Tips To Achieve The Best Results During a DUI Traffic Stop

 Posted on April 18, 2018 in DUI

Do you ever get so caught up in your thoughts while driving that your brain goes into an “auto-pilot” mode and self-navigates the vehicle the rest of the way to your destination? Even if you arrive safely, not remembering the trip is frightening; however, it is much scarier when police lights are what brings you back to full awareness. Adding a potential DUI to the ordeal becomes the figurative “icing on the cake.” Here are a few tips and tricks to help you navigate the tricky waters of a traffic stop:

Avoid Being Stopped

Preventing a problem is better than fixing one after it becomes a situation. While advising the avoidance of the “auto-pilot” scenario is helpful, no one is perfect, and the mind is difficult to control. With that in mind, semi-conscious driving is not as attention-grabbing as other behaviors. The top offenses leading to police stops include:

• Speeding
• Distracted driving
• Equipment violations
• Improper lane changes
• Tailgating

Mind Your Manners

Remember, an officer begins building a case before they even turn on their lights, which includes the manner in which you pull off the road and how you conduct yourself throughout the stop. 

For starters, when an officer pulls you over, do not pull off to the left-hand side of the road or the median. Moving to the left is a major pet peeve and a fast way to get on the officer’s bad side before you have a chance to meet. Instead, safely make your way to the right-hand side of the road. If there is traffic, and you have to change lanes, be sure to use your blinker, so the officer understands you are compliant. 

If alcohol is a factor, crack or roll down your windows to air out the car. The smell of alcohol permeates out of your skin and saturates the air in the vehicle, giving a very distinct odor. Other tips to consider include:

• Have your identification and insurance information readily available and on the dashboard with your hands on the wheel when the officer approaches.
• If it is after dark, turn on the light inside the cab to set the officer at ease.
• Respond to questions with short answers, without giving incriminating information.
• When asked if you know why you have been stopped, say “no.”
• Do not become confrontational.

Contact An Attorney

If you face DUI charges, a Santa Cruz, CA DUI defense attorney can help. John W. Thornton, Attorney at Law, understands the devastation that a conviction can have on your life and your future. Let us help. Call 831-426-5800 today to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation.

Sources:

http://blog.esurance.com/police-reveal-4-most-common-ways-to-get-pulled-over/

https://driving-tests.org/beginner-drivers/what-to-do-if-you-get-pulled-over-by-a-police-officer/