What to do if you’re suspected of drunk driving

No one wants to find themselves pulled over on suspicion of drunk driving. Unfortunately, this is a frequent occurrence that can happen to anyone.

If you’re pulled over under the suspicion of driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol in New Hampshire then here are a few pointers to keep in mind:

When a police officer pulls you over…

Officers are meant to handle situations with professional behavior. Here are several tips when approached by an officer:

1. Provide your identification when asked. The police officer suspecting you of drunk driving will ask you for forms of identification readably available in your car. These documents include license, registration and car insurance.
2. Keep calm and take a breath. These documents will help the officer establish who you are and the ownership of the car. There won’t be any reason to resist the officer. Upsetting the officer at this point can only harm you.
3. Understand the consequences of refusing a breath test. It’s illegal to have a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .08 or higher and this can be tested through breath tests. These tests have been known to be highly inaccurate. However, they are used under an “implied consent law,” meaning that your ability to keep your driver’s license depends upon your compliance with the officer’s demands.
4. Don’t take field sobriety tests. Field sobriety tests are often done by untrained officers and are based on the personal opinion of the officer with no actual justification. You are not legally required to submit to these.
5. Plead the Fifth. You aren’t required to answer any questions under the Fifth Amendment which protects you from providing self-incriminating information.

The best possible advice is the most direct: Don’t drink and drive. It’s about that time of year when merry drinking is on the rise, but don’t let the suspicion of driving under the influence lead to legal problems.

Don’t be embarrassed because you were arrested for drunk driving. If you feel you’ve been wronged and need assistance, reach out for legal counsel today.