Dallas DUI Attorney Explains What Not to Do When Being Pulled Over

Even after having just one drink, you could be pulled over on suspicion of driving under the influence (DUI). Dallas DUI attorney Kay Van Wey has tips for you to handle the situation.

Pulled over by a police officer?
You would do well to bite your tongue.

If you’re pulled over by a police officer, it can be an anxiety-inducing situation. Gather yourself, stay in your car, don’t go rummaging for anything, and guard your tongue, tone, and attitude when the police officer talks to you.

Speaking of conversation, always let the police officer initiate it. If you decide to kick things off with a defensive “What’s the problem?” it won’t help your cause. The police officer will usually ask for your license and registration; comply with this request immediately. Amazingly, many people demand to know why they were pulled over before they’ll cooperate. Don’t make that mistake.

Police officers learn in police academy to determine before they exit their car whether they’re going to issue a ticket or just a warning. Don’t be fooled if they seem to be open-minded about not giving you a ticket if only you’ll be more forthcoming with additional information. They might be trying to extract admissions that can be used against you in court if it comes to that (e.g., admitting to a violation, or that you don’t know if you committed one because of carelessness or negligence).

If you are asked if you know why you were pulled over, reply “no.” If you hazard a guess, it’s often seen as acknowledging guilt. No need to be chatty. If the officer tells you how fast you were going and you disagree, don’t argue. In fact, silence in this case is golden.

Police officers are public servants charged with safeguarding the welfare of society at large. Be polite and respectful in your interaction with them. They’re not the enemy; however, they do sometimes make mistakes. And when they do, you need to do everything you can to protect your own interests.

Knowing how to handle any situation in which you get pulled over by a police officer could help you in a subsequent case against you, whether you were stopped for a traffic violation or on suspicion of DUI. If you have been charged with DUI, call experienced Dallas DUI attorney Kay Van Wey today at (214) 329-1350 or (800) 489-5082 to learn more about your legal rights.