If you are at a DUI checkpoint, you need to be very cautious how you act and what measures you take. You should be aware that DUI checkpoints happen frequently, and are more common around drinking holidays or events. For example, if there is major sports game at an arena in your city, then there will probably be extra DUI checkpoints following the game. As well, if it is Labor Day weekend or St. Patrick’s Day, there will probably be more DUI checkpoints than normal. Whenever you see a DUI checkpoint, don’t panic. The police have very specific patterns in which they pull cars out of the checkpoint line for a quick test. If you are not one of the predetermined cars in the pattern, you won’t have to stop. If you do have to stop, it is important to obey the police officers and play it cool.
The biggest mistake you can make at a DUI checkpoint is to admit that you have been drinking and driving. The police do not know this until they have taken a breathalyzer or blood test. It is important that you assume that they are ignorant of your drinking and driving, even if you do happen to be guilty. It is very important that you steer clear of using alcohol and driving in general to avoid police confrontations like this one.
In addition, you should not drive erratically near DUI checkpoints. For example, if you pull out of the checkpoint line and zoom off the other way, this could work as a disadvantage. The police have the right to pull over any driver if they have reasonable suspicion. Driving very slowly, obviously avoiding a DUI checkpoint, or stopping and refusing to drive into a DUI checkpoint are all behaviors that might give you away. While you are not required to funnel through a DUI checkpoint, it is best that you U-turn well ahead of the line if you don’t want to appear suspicious.
If you are pulled over at a DUI checkpoint, make sure that there are no visible alcohol bottles in your car. The open container laws state that even if you have not been drinking while driving, it is illegal to have any open containers of alcohol in your car. If you are caught with an open container, then you will most likely be arrested. Hide any alcoholic containers in your car, or better yet, just make a point to never open alcohol in your vehicle.
If you are pulled over in a sobriety checkpoint, do not talk aggressively or rudely to the officer. Instead, it is in your best interests to be polite and cordial with the officers as they have a brief conversation with you. If nothing seems awry, chances are that they will let you go on your way without any breath tests or blood tests.
Also, if your are stopped at a checkpoint, do not act aggressively or erratically. It is very important that you are gracious and compliant. Aggressive and erratic actions may tip the police off to the possibility that you may be intoxicated. Also, some of your behaviors may be considered assault of a police officer. This could land you in jail regardless of whether or not you are guilty of a DUI.
If you have a firearm in your car, it is wise to keep this hidden when you encounter a DUI checkpoint. While most states allow licensed and registered gun owners to have a firearm in the vehicle, it may be alarming to see it in plain site. It is best to put your gun in the trunk or the glove compartment. If you want more information about DUI checkpoints, or if you have been arrested for a DUI and need assistance in your case, then don’t hesitate to contact a skilled attorney at a local law firm today! With the right attorney on your side, you may be able to seek assistance in your case. Call today to learn more!
