Ventura county ranks lower than the national and state average for the number of car accidents per 100,000 people, yet many people are still accused of driving under the influence (DUI).
If you are accused of drunk driving on the roads of Ventura county, it’s best to hire a Ventura DUI Lawyer to represent you. They have vast experience fighting similar cases and know what needs to be done to get the charges dropped entirely, or if that’s not possible, at least get you a reduced sentence.
Many people do not understand what they must do when they are accused of DUI. So, here are five things you need to do if you are pulled over for a DUI.
Find a safe place to stop your vehicle
Remember, as soon as the officer decides to pull you over for a DUI or DWI, he begins making observations that will be recorded in the police report. He has already noticed something that he believes demonstrates driving while drunk or intoxicated to initiate the stop.
You can’t do anything about the observations right now. Still, the police report could have a significant impact on the outcome of your criminal trial and any proceedings relating to your driver’s license suspension or revocation. The way you pull over will most likely be one of the first things the police notices, so make sure you pull over properly and calmly.
Be well-mannered and polite all the time
One main reason to treat the police with respect is that you are significantly less likely to be detained if he believes you are genuinely courteous. If you’re nasty, insincere, or aggressive, the officer is more likely to take offense, arrest you, and do everything in his power to condemn you, including producing a highly incriminating police report.
If the cops ask you to step out of your car, you must do so or risk being punished with resisting arrest. Be helpful and friendly, as if you have nothing else to do than comply with the officer’s wishes, which you, frankly, do not.
Make no erratic or suspicious movements or gestures
Officers are taught to be cautious and to defend themselves. They always approach the vehicle from behind, giving them an accurate view and forcing the driver to turn around entirely to shoot or assault them.
Don’t make any abrupt moves, don’t turn around to see the police approaching, don’t leap out of the car, and don’t try to crouch down in shame. In reality, your best option is to keep your hands on the wheel until the police come up to your window and ask for your ID.
Refuse to take a field sobriety test
You are not required by law to take a field sobriety test. Field sobriety tests are one of the most successful techniques available to officers for gathering evidence against you, not because they are valid markers of intoxication, but because they provide the officer with subjective observations on which to base his judgment that you are drunk.
Hire a DUI Lawyer
DUI charges can have a big impact on your social image as well as your future. You can also lose your driving license temporarily or for years. The case can also escalate further if you are met with an accident.
If you are arrested for DUI, it’s best to hire an experienced Ventura DUI Lawyer to represent you and guide you on the next steps.
