Pulled Over for DUI in Bellevue or Seattle?
April 3, 2012
What to do when you are pulled over for a DUI:
Retrieve your license, registration, and insurance when asked by the officer. Remember, the officer will be watching how you perform this task, so do so carefully.
Be polite to the officer, but do not answer questions regarding whether or not you have been drinking. Evidence that you refused to answer questions cannot be used against you at trial.
Do not perform any field sobriety tests. These tests are used as evidence against you if you are charged with a DUI. The refusal of these tests can also be used as evidence against you, but are less damaging than the actual performance.
The officer may ask that you do a portable breath test, however this test is completely voluntary and a refusal to take the test cannot be used against you in a criminal trial. Therefore, you should not take the test.
If you are being placed under arrest, immediately ask to be put in contact with an attorney at the first available moment. This will most likely take place at the police station.
Always have the number of a good, reputable bail bondsman, because some law enforcement agencies are booking people in jail as part of their routine for DUI suspects.
You have the right to refuse the breath or blood test at the station, however many agencies will get a subpoena to take the test regardless of your refusal. The sentencing and licensing consequences are more severe if you refuse, so as a rule of thumb, you should take the test. However, you should not take the test until you are put in contact with and get advice from an experienced DUI attorney.
If you are reading this blog, it might be because you have already received a DUI. Keep this information handy, and pass it along to friends and family.