9 “Must-Know” Tips When Pulled Over

You’ve likely heard the horror stories from the DUI accident attorneys you happen to know – a friend, family member, or coworker. They’re driving home after bar close or even from work late at night – and they see the red and blue flashing lights behind them. A couple minutes pass and they find themselves pulled over and being questioned by an officer.

This article courtesy of accident lawyer experts at Accidents.com.

If you find yourself in this unlucky event, it’s not the time to panic. Take a few deep breaths and try to calm yourself down. Then, remember these tips:

• Pull over in a safe place – If you’re on a highway or county road, pull over to the right side as soon as you have a chance. If you’re on a busier interstate, look for a safe place and get to the side as soon as possible.

• Put your hands at 10 and 2 – After you get safely settled at the side of the road, turn on your dome light and place your hands on the steering wheel where the officer can see them.

• Don’t argue or get defensive – The best thing you can do right now is agree with the officer and do everything he or she is asking of you. When they ask for your license and registration, calmly give it to them and try your best not to fumble with the documents.

• You have the right to remain silent – Use it! We can’t emphasize this enough – you are under NO obligation to tell the officer yes or no. If he or she asks you if you’ve been drinking, don’t answer the question – regardless of if you’ve had one drink or way too many. Instead, say something like, “I don’t wish to answer the question at this time,” Or, “I’ve been advised not to answer questions like that.”

• Don’t admit to taking any drugs – Even if you’re taking a prescription drug, don’t admit it to the officer. As mentioned above, say “I don’t wish to answer the question at this time,” because any type of drug (even OTC) can affect your driving and could be used against you in court.

• Ask to be videotaped IF it will help you – Most officers have a video camera on their dash that can record interactions, even at a routine traffic stop. If you feel this would be to your benefit (if you haven’t been drinking or don’t think you’re over the legal limit), ask that this be turned on.

• Refuse a Field Sobriety Test – Experts agree, you should always refuse a field sobriety test. Several factors can play into the results, and not in a positive way. Things like the weather, outside distractions, and flashing lights can all affect the results and make you appear more intoxicated than you are.

• Don’t say “yes” to a search – If the officer requests to search your vehicle, you should always say no.

• In most states, it’s okay to refuse a Breathalyzer test – One of the most common misconceptions about a Breathalyzer test is that everyone thinks they’re required to take one. If given the option, you should actually refuse it. Why? Because they can be inaccurate up to 50 percent due to several outside factors. If you haven’t been drinking or don’t think you’re over the limit, request a urine or blood test instead.

Keep in mind the above tips if you ever find yourself involved in a traffic stop. They can make a big difference in whether you’re taken to jail or walk away without punishment.