Just the same as every other state, police in Virginia are taking things to the next level in regard to its attempt to keep drunk drivers off the road. Even though you’re aware of this, as well as the fact that driving drunk is dangerous, you could still make the mistake of getting behind the wheel after consuming alcohol.
If you’re pulled over for suspicion of DUI, it’s critical that you take the steps necessary to protect your legal rights. Here are some of the things you should do:
- Comply with the officer’s request for additional information: For example, they’ll ask for license and registration, so provide it to them as quickly as possible. It’s a good idea to know where it’s located in your vehicle so you don’t have to search around.
- Keep your answers short: Don’t go on and on about where you’re coming from, where you’re going and how you would never drink and drive. Concise answers are the best answers at this point.
- Don’t answer questions you don’t understand: If you don’t understand a question, ask for clarification. And if you think an answer will incriminate you, tell the officer that you’d rather not answer.
- Don’t resist arrest: Even if you feel you’re being treated in an unfair manner, resisting arrest will only make things worse. It can lead to more trouble at the scene, as well as additional criminal charges.
Once you’re processed and released from jail, you’ll have plenty of time to review the arrest, collect information and decide what type of defense strategy is right for your situation.
It’s critical that you implement a strategy to protect your legal rights, as a conviction can have a wide-reaching impact on your life.
For example, even if it’s your first arrest for suspicion of DUI in Virginia, there’s an automatic license suspension if your blood alcohol level was in excess of .08. And that doesn’t even take into consideration other penalties, such as a large fine, community service and time in prison.
Any arrest for suspicion of DUI calls for you to carefully review the circumstances and your legal rights. You need a plan to minimize the impact on your life.