Good Fences And Not So Good Neighbors: Property Law 101

Good Fences And Not So Good Neighbors: Property Law 101

Here's What To Do When Pulled Over Under The Influence

by Hunter Moore

First things first, every adult with a brain should know that one should never, ever drive while intoxicated by the likes of alcohol or other substances. That said, sometimes people make mistakes, or misjudge their own capabilities. It doesn't take that many beers to run afoul of the legal blood alcohol level for driving in most states. Sometimes even just a few beers at the bar before the drive home could be enough to put into potentially dangerous territory. If you suddenly find yourself pulled over and know that you have been drinking, don't panic. Here are a few tips on how to handle the situation.

Pull Over in a Calm Manner

As soon as you see the police lights go on behind you, you should realize that every move you make is key. The police officer may have already been observing your behavior with the car, but don't give them any extra evidence for their report. The officer will often note in a DWI report the manner in which the driver pulled off to the side of the road. Don't make a sudden stop or veer suddenly to the side. Calmly slow down and pull over with an even drop in speed. Take a deep breath and prepare yourself to talk to the police.

Stay Attitude Free, Even if the Situation Escalates

It's common sense that you shouldn't lose your temper in front of a cop, but plenty of people lose their cool sometimes when under interrogation. Be polite when speaking to the officer, and try to keep your demeanor the same if asked to step out of the car. Being asked to step out does not mean you are under arrest. The officer is likely asking you to step out to get a better gauge of your condition, but it does not guarantee that you will be taken in. Comply with all instructions to the best of your ability because any lapses in judgment will end up in the report as evidence against you.

Know That You Can Refuse to Answer

While it's key to remain polite, you should also know that you do have certain rights when talking to the police and one of them is that they can't force you to answer something you don't want to. If the officer directly asks you if you have been drinking, you have the right to politely say, "I'm sorry, but I don't want to answer any questions at this time." Now, keep in mind, an answer like that will likely get you taken in for a blood test. But at the very least, you are not incriminating yourself beforehand. A good DWI defense lawyer might even be able to get a blood-alcohol test thrown out as evidence, depending on the circumstances. So don't volunteer any additional information that might make you look bad.

Getting pulled over by the police after you've been drinking at the bar is a terrible feeling, but it's important to keep your cool. Pull over your vehicle as safely and normally as possible, keep a cool and collected demeanor while talking to the police, and understand that you are under no obligation to answer any questions before talking to your attorney, like Garrett Law Firm, PA. Follow these tips and there's at least a chance you might be able to beat a DWI charge.


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Good Fences And Not So Good Neighbors: Property Law 101

If you've recently moved into a new house and your neighbors are claiming you've infringed on their property line with your new fence, you may not know what to do. Sure, the idea of contacting a lawyer can be intimidating, but if your neighbors are insistent that you're on their property and you can't prove otherwise, an attorney may be the best choice. I created this site to help people just like you understand the laws surrounding property boundaries, real estate claims, and similar issues. I hope that the information here will give you some clarity as to whether or not you need to consult an attorney to protect your interests.

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