The year seems to be flying by. Even though the school year has already started, it’s still summer. Some individuals and families often decide to have the season go out with a bang by planning a final celebration before the season’s end.
Of course, there is nothing wrong with celebrating and having fun. But the problems begin when those celebrating with alcohol decide to drive home when the party’s over.
If you get pulled over by police
Don’t resist. That escalates the situation and will earn you additional charges (and they will catch you eventually). But don’t be overly cooperative, either. You are not legally obligated to perform roadside sobriety tests or give a breath sample at the scene of the traffic stop.
That doesn’t mean that you can just drive away without a care. The law enforcement officer who stopped you will then likely arrest you for driving under the influence (DUI). At the station, you will likely have to give a breath sample or face some pretty strict consequences, e.g., suspension of driver’s license.
Understand your rights in a DUI stop
If you get stopped by police after a night of celebration, your goal should be to avoid escalation. It’s never advisable to attempt to convince the police of your innocence. Rather, minimize your interactions by verbally invoking your right to remain silent until you speak to an attorney.
Close out your summer by having as much fun as possible. Just remember to arrange for a safe and sober ride home to avoid an arrest on drunk driving charges.
