Getting a DUI can be one of life’s most difficult experiences. You can lose your driver’s license, you might be sentenced to jail, and you could wind up paying a large fine on top of the court costs associated with the case. The best way to avoid being put in this situation is simply to not drive your car after you have been driving. But even with the best planning, things happen. If you do drive after drinking and are stopped by the police, there is a good chance you will be charged with DUI. Given the possible consequences mentioned above, you will need to aggressively defend the charges and work hard to protect your rights. Or, you can take steps to avoid getting a DUI in the first place.
Three ways to avoid a DUI include:
- Have a designated driver in your group. You can also call a cab, a friend who was not part of your outing, or use a driving service like Uber or Lyft. When you make alternate plans to get home after a night out, you can relax and enjoy your time with friends and family. Make sure you come up with a plan a few days in advance, so you don’t have to think on your feet later.
- Plan your event at an overnight location. You might want to think about hosting the next party, so you don’t have to leave your house and run the risk of being pulled over after you’ve been drinking. Or, you might plan your next event near a hotel or conference center, and book a block of rooms for yourself and the other guests.
- Keep a cool head if you are pulled over, and this includes knowing what to do if you are stopped at a DUI checkpoint. When you have a basic understanding of what the authorities are allowed to do, and what is prohibited, you are in a better position to stay calm if you are stopped and questioned. While this may not prevent an arrest, it will at least allow you to avoid divulging incriminating information that could be used against you later.
Even with the best planning, we know that things can take a different turn. If you are pulled over and arrested for DUI, call us for help. We have experience in defending DUI cases, and can help you too! Call today to learn more.
For help with questions about DUI defense, call a competent criminal defense attorney in Stuart and the Treasure Coast for help. We offer representation for a wide range of offenses, call us to schedule an appointment.