When a police officer pulls you over for suspicion of driving under the influence, it is not an immediate conviction. Defendants can fight their charges, but to do that, they need to make sure they avoid unnecessary mistakes.
Even a first offense can cost a defendant hundreds of dollars and possible time in jail, which is precisely why drivers need to be sure to avoid any unneeded errors. Here are four common mistakes to avoid at a traffic stop:
Admit to drinking
It does not matter if you only had a drink or two. Police officers can still be that admission against you. Admitting to drinking and driving is extremely hard to defend against, so be sure to never disclose anything.
Take a roadside sobriety test
If you have had anything to drink, and the officer wants to run a sobriety test, do not take it. You have the right in Pennsylvania to decline as long as the police have not arrested you. If you have been arrested, there can be additional consequences for denying a test.
Wait and hope the case will go away
Ignoring the case or trying to wait it out is the same as giving up when it comes to DUI charges. Inaction against your charges can only result in the worst possible outcome for you. A fine and jail time can drastically change your plans, and doing nothing to fight your charges will not help avoid them.
Plead guilty
It does not matter if an officer watched you drinking and driving; you can still build a strong defense based on your case’s facts. Police errors, mishandling of evidence, and other mistakes can result in a judge dismissing your case. If you readily admit guilt, then there may never be a chance to get a dismissal.
Avoid these costly mistakes
There is always a chance of beating a DUI charge. The worst thing you can do for yourself is to give up. Consult with an experienced criminal defense attorney to build your best possible defense.