For years the police have been using DUI checkpoints to make DUI arrests. But in recent years the use of checkpoints has increased and so has the attention given to this method of cracking down on DUI’s. There are a lot of questions about what is legal and what you do not have to do if you are at a checkpoint. More often than not the things people know about the law comes from well-intentioned friends or family, and may not always be accurate. Knowing what to do if you find yourself at a DUI checkpoint, from a reliable source, can make all the difference in the world in how you act and what you say during the stop.
If you are stopped at a DUI checkpoint here are three ways to handle the stop:
- Ask for an attorney, and give only basic information such as your name.
- Remain in your car and remain calm. If you become agitated or hostile towards the officer you will most likely be detained longer and the risk of being arrested will increase.
- Do your homework before you go out, and make sure you know when and where checkpoints will be scheduled. One of the requirements for a valid DUI checkpoint is for it to be made known to the public in advance. If you know where a checkpoint will be set up you may be able to avoid it altogether by staying out of the designated area.
If you are stopped at a checkpoint and given a DUI keep in mind you do have defenses. The type of defense strategy you use will depend on the specific facts of your case, but most cases can be defended. In order to make sure you don’t leave any possible resolution on the table, call one of our DUI defense attorneys today. We will work with you to learn the facts of your case and come up with a defense that works for you.
For more information about DUI’s and DUI checkpoints, call an experienced defense attorney in Stuart and the Treasure Coast. We offer an initial consultation for no charge, and look forward to helping you.