What to Do If You’re Pulled Over for a DUI

Written by Timothy Czekaj

For many people, being pulled over by the police is one of the most stressful experiences they can imagine. The situation becomes even more daunting if the officer suspects you of driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or drugs. If this happens, it is critical to contact the Perry County DUI lawyers at Czekaj Law, LLC immediately.

Whether you remained silent or said something that may reflect poorly on you during a traffic stop, our experienced DUI attorneys can protect your rights and develop the strongest possible defense under Pennsylvania law.

Call (717) 275-9770 today for a confidential consultation.

Steps to Take if You Are Pulled Over for a DUI

If you are stopped by law enforcement and suspected of impaired driving, follow these guidelines to protect yourself legally:

Identify yourself

You are legally required to give the police your name and show them your driver’s license. If you do not have an ID or refuse to show it, you could face charges.

Exercise Your Right to Remain Silent

Whenever you are dealing with the police, you have the right to remain silent and not answer their questions. It can be difficult to do this during a traffic stop. You may feel compelled to politely answer their basic questions. That is always your choice. However, if you are uncomfortable answering questions, inform the police officer that you will remain silent until you have an attorney present.

Exit the Vehicle If Requested

If a police officer asks you to get out of your vehicle, you must do so. Be sure to exit your car slowly, without making any movements or comments that could be perceived as aggressive toward the officer. If you refuse to exit the car, you increase the likelihood of being arrested.

Refuse Field Sobriety Tests

Once you have been asked to get out of a vehicle, an officer may ask you to perform certain physical tests. These are field sobriety tests that are used to obtain clues that you are intoxicated. You can always refuse to take these tests, although you may still be arrested for a DUI.

Refuse a Roadside Breath Test

In addition to or instead of a field sobriety test, an officer may ask you to blow into a portable breath test device. This is intended to give the officer a preliminary blood alcohol concentration (BAC) reading that they may use as evidence to arrest you. You have the right to refuse this test.

Refuse a Formal Breath Test at a Police Station

If you are arrested and asked to take a breath test at the police station or a medical facility, you have the right to refuse; however, doing so may have additional consequences. This is an evidentiary breath test and is more serious than a roadside breath test. If you refuse a breath test that falls under Pennsylvania’s implied consent law, then you may face civil and criminal penalties, such as an automatic license suspension.

Refuse a Warrantless Blood Test

If you are asked to take a blood test and the police do not have a warrant, you are entitled to refuse. You cannot be criminally punished. However, it is essential to note that under Pennsylvania’s implied consent laws, you can still lose your license for refusing to submit to a warrantless blood test.

Contact a Perry County DUI Lawyer

If you are arrested for a DUI in Perry County, you should make it clear to the police that you want an attorney. You should remain silent and not answer any questions until your lawyer is present.

Why You Need a Perry County DUI Lawyer

Many people believe they can handle a DUI charge on their own, especially if they think the circumstances are minor. The reality is that every DUI case is unique, and even small details can significantly affect your legal outcomes.

By contacting Czekaj Law, LLC, you gain:

• Experienced legal advocacy
• A thorough review of your case
• Objective guidance on best and worst-case outcomes
• Advice on the strongest defenses available under Pennsylvania law

schedule a confidential DUI Case Consultation

By calling Czekaj Law, LLC, you gain an experienced legal advocate who will review your situation and give you an objective opinion on the best and worst possible outcomes of your case.

For more information on how we can help, call (717) 275-9770 to schedule a confidential case consultation.