It is Friday night; you are heading home after a fun-filled evening out with friends, and the absolute last thing you want to run into is a police stop. Suddenly, your worst fears come true when the siren goes off and the flashing lights alert you to pull over. Panic sets in and you begin to wonder whether you are about to fail a BAC test.
If you are pulled over on driving while intoxicated (DWI) suspicion in Colorado, it is in your best interest that you know what you should, and should not, do. Basically, the 5th Amendment protects you from responding to questions that may land you in trouble.
Here are two things you need to do immediately after you are pulled over for a DWI.
Slow down and stop your car at a safe spot
Once you have established that the law enforcement officer is right behind you, be sure to turn on your signal and stop your car as soon as you can find a safe spot. Do not stop abruptly in the middle of the road or make erratic movements while pulling over as this might endanger your life as well as the other road users. Most important, do not ignore the signal and speed off. Doing so can only worsen things for you.
Lower your window and remain seated in the car
Once you have stopped, roll down your window, turn off the engine and remain seated in the car. Be sure to keep your hands on the steering when where the police can see them. This is not the time to panic and begin scrambling for your driver’s license. Wait to take out your license when you are asked to do so. If you appear uneasy, the police might suspect that you are attempting to draw a weapon or hide some illegal items.
Most people do not know how to respond if pulled over for suspected drunk driving. To best protect your rights and interests, make sure you have an experienced DWI lawyer on your side. .
