As a driver, you have the responsibility to do everything possible to use common sense and avoid driving while impaired. Even so, you might be stopped for DWI or a DUI. If so, you need to call a seasoned Fort Worth DWI defense attorney for help. Review each of these steps for advice on what to do if you are stopped for impaired driving.
1. Safely and carefully pull over your vehicle.
The officer will be watching you and documenting your actions throughout the traffic stop. Their statements about your behavior can significantly affect your case and lead to a possible loss of your driver’s license or even a criminal conviction.
2. Wait for the officer to approach your car.
They are trained to watch you for any suspicious movements. Try to keep your body, especially your hands, in view. They will ask for your identification and registration. Comply with this request.
3. Be courteous.
There is no reason to be rude; if you are respectful, the officer will most likely treat you with respect. Of course, the opposite is true as well. Do as they ask so that you do not risk additional charges, such as resisting arrest.
4. You have the right to remain silent, and you should invoke that right instead of lying.
You will need to provide the officers with personal information, but you do not need to answer questions about alcohol consumption. You certainly run the risk of losing your license and being held in custody, but you do not want to incriminate yourself and face more serious charges. If you only had one or two drinks, you might be forthcoming, but use your discretion.
5. Do not submit to a field sobriety test.
The officer will attempt to use these to prove your level of impairment. However, your driver’s license could be suspended for failure to comply with the test. Even so, if you agree to the test, the officer will testify in court that you were intoxicated.
6. Do not agree to a hand-held breath test because they can be very inaccurate.
Again, your license will be automatically suspended, but you will probably not go to jail. In return, you could be subject to a blood draw or be ordered to take a more reliable test at the police station. Once you are in custody, you should agree to these tests or run the risk of resisting arrest.
7. Submit to a blood or breath test at the police station.
If you have a choice, ask for a breath test as the results can be more easily challenged in court.
8. Document everything you remember about the event as soon as possible after your release.
This will help your Fort Worth DWI defense attorney defend you more effectively. Write down what you did before you drove, what you drank, how much you drank and all relevant information. Even something insignificant, such as your clothing, might affect your case.
You will need a Fort Worth DWI defense attorney with the knowledge and experience to effectively represent you. Bryan Hoeller will stay by your side through each step of the legal process. Call him at 877-208-3382.
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Highly recommend! Colin thank you so much for your dedication. Thank you for actually wanting to sincerely help and give us the best outcome we can get. You are by far one of the best. You helped my bf reschedule a court date after it was missed and was able to give him the same plea deal. Thank you again Colin.
Kassandra H
Absolutely wonderful! Collin was fantastic. He really fought for me and I am very happy with the outcome of my case. He really fought for my case to have a positive outcome and was supportive, easy to get ahold of when needed and walked me through everything. I would definitely recommend him to anyone and everyone!!
Stephanie M
I would highly recommend Hoeller McLaughlin. They helped my husband on a probation violation case and did an excellent job. Dustin Trammel was our attorney and he communicated with us and was supportive and helpful throughout the process. Very good legal service and would recommend this firm.
Hillary G
Colin by far has been one of the BEST attorneys in Ft. Worth. His dedication and attentiveness really shows not only in court but with the client and family. Great communication, easy web portal and friendly staff. 5 stars are NOT enough. Thank you Colin
Stephanie Alvarado
I can not say enough about how grateful I am that Dustin Trammel was my attorney! Having no experience with court proceedings, Dustin explained everything and stayed in touch with me the entire time. I couldn’t have asked for a better attorney! Very highly recommend!!
Brenna Mills
