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How your actions during a traffic stop can affect your DWI case

Texas DWI attorney

Police officers often know what to look for when cracking down on drunk drivers. Some indicators that someone may be driving drunk include minor traffic infractions, not staying within the lines in the road, or driving late at night or during the early morning hours.

These are only indicators that could lead to suspicion. Sometimes, police do make errors in judgment, however. These errors can lead to someone being falsely arrested and charged with DWI.

That's why it's important to know your rights during a routine traffic stop. If you are facing DWI charges, it's critical that you consult with an experienced lawyer who can help you fight the charges.

How can my actions impact my DWI case?

It's important to understand that the job of law enforcement is to keep our communities safe, including keeping drunk drivers off the road. Sometimes, police may take a cookie-cutter approach to cracking down on drunk drivers. While they don't act as judge and jury, they can gather evidence that can be used against you in court.

Hiring an attorney to handle your DWI case is only half the battle to fighting the charges. The actions you take during a traffic stop can dictate the course of your DWI case.

What you should do

Here's how you can save yourself a lot of legal trouble in court:

  • Remain calm during a traffic stop: Being pulled over can be frustrating and frightening. You may not understand why you're being stopped and may believe that it's justified.  It is important not to panic, get angry, or argue with a police officer, however. This can lead to more problems, and potentially, additional charges. It's best to stay calm, keep your hands on the wheel, and do your best to put yourself and the officer at ease.
  • Remain silent: When an officer asks for your name, driver's license, and vehicle registration, you are required to provide them. You are not required to answer any additional questions, however. A police officer may ask you if you've had anything to drink. Your answer can lead to more suspicion and probing. Also, anything you tell a police officer can be used to convict you in court.
  • Understand your rights during a roadside test: If a police officer suspects that you were driving drunk, you may be asked to perform a field sobriety test or roadside breath test. A field sobriety test doesn't necessarily provide hard evidence that you were driving drunk, as these tests may be difficult for the average person to perform. There is no law requiring you to take this test. Breath tests are different, however. They can provide evidence that can be used against you. Under Texas's implied consent law, you can refuse a breath test, but can still be arrested and have your driver's license suspended for 180 days. If you take a breath test, the results can be disputed in court since Breathalyzer readings aren't always accurate.

How can a criminal defense attorney help me fight a DWI charge?

The actions that you take during a traffic stop may not prevent you from being arrested and charged with DWI. The less evidence that can be used against you, however, the easier it will be for your attorney to help you fight the charges.

If you are facing DWI charges, don't hesitate to consult with Amanda Webb - DWI Lawyer. Attorney Webb can investigate your DWI case and devise a winning legal strategy. To learn more, contact us online or call 1-800-395-5951 to schedule your free DWI case evaluation.