Mistakes to Avoid During a Columbia DUI Stop

Bad driving can result in a traffic stop and once someone is pulled over, the traffic stop process is going to happen. When an individual is pulled over, the officer may ask the driver to provide their driver’s license, proof of insurance, and their vehicle registration. A person should always be respectful to the officer to not cause any issues with this part of the process. There are many mistakes to avoid during a Columbia DUI stop and it is essential that every driver knows them. To learn more, contact a seasoned DUI lawyer today.

Answering Investigative Questions

One of the biggest mistakes to avoid during a Columbia DUI stop is answering investigative questions. A person has an absolute right to not answer investigative questions. An individual does not have to answer how much they had to drink when they had their last drink, or if they had anything to drink at all. They also do not have to tell the officer where they are going or where they are coming from.

It is recommended that a person not answer any kind of an investigative question that may not be favorable for them. An individual has an absolute right to invoke the right to remain silent and not incriminate themselves.

Consenting to a Vehicle Search

Another common mistake at a traffic stop is when a person consents to a vehicle search. This is an even bigger mistake when the driver knows they have illegal drugs or a container of beer inside the vehicle. If someone consents to a search, the officer could find something that they could use as evidence of a DUI. Even if someone believes their car is clean from drugs or alcohol, they should not consent to a search.

Taking Field Sobriety Tests

If someone has mobility problems, such as leg issues, or if they are under the influence of alcohol or drugs, they should refuse to take a field sobriety test. Many people do not know that they have the right to refuse a field sobriety test. It is important to understand that an officer cannot make a person take a field sobriety test. If a person believes they may have a hard time conducting the test, they should not do it. Failing a field sobriety test can result in more evidence of the person being under the influence.

DUI Breath Tests in Columbia

Unlike refusing to take a field sobriety test, refusing to take a breath test could result in consequences. When someone refuses a breath test, their license is suspended for six months. The person then has 30 days to challenge the suspension at the Office of Motor Vehicle Hearings.

If someone does take a breath test and their blood alcohol content level is above .15 percent, then their license will be suspended for six months. However, if someone has had a lot of alcohol, the evidence of taking the breath test could make things worse. The higher a persons blood alcohol content level is, the more severe the punishment is going to be.

If you want to find out more information about what mistakes to avoid during a Columbia DUI stop or how an attorney could help you, call an accomplished defense lawyer today.