Giving You Information to Help You Understand Your Rights

If you’ve ever been arrested for a crime, you know how important it is to understand your rights.  Knowing your rights in advance can help you protect yourself from police misconduct or even prevent you from experiencing some life changing events.  When it comes to driving under the influence, knowing your rights is crucial.  Because the Constitution has all but been ignored in some instances, knowing your rights can prevent you from getting embroiled in a case that can take months of your time and thousands of dollars of your money.  If you’re not sure what your rights are, get in touch with a Vista drunk driving defense attorney so you can arm yourself with reliable information.

DUI Checkpoints

While law enforcement officers cannot pull you over for no reason, they can pull you over at approved DUI checkpoints.  These are authorized stops that are put in place by the authorities to prevent DUI offenses.  While you do have to stop at a checkpoint if you come to it, there are a few rules in place that you may not know about.  Drivers must be warned of the checkpoint and have an opportunity to turn their cars around before they come to the checkpoint.  If this doesn’t take place, the checkpoint can be considered invalid.  If you were arrested for DUI and you feel the checkpoint was invalid, talk to your Vista drunk driving defense attorney.  You’ll be able to get answers from a knowledgeable source.

Blood Alcohol Testing

Many people think that you have to submit to breath testing in the field, prior to your arrest.  This is not the case if you are 21 or older.  You can refuse breath testing.  However, if you are arrested and asked to submit to testing, you must comply or you can be charged with blood alcohol test refusal, which carries a long license suspension period even if you are not convicted of DUI.  Consult a qualified Vista drunk driving defense attorney if you need more information on your rights as they relate to blood alcohol testing. 

Sobriety Testing

Many people also think you have to submit to sobriety tests.  You do not have to submit to these tests if you don’t want to.  Many people with orthopedic disorders, diabetes, and other medical conditions would fail these sobriety tests due to issues with balance, blurred vision, and walking.  This can lead to DUI arrest even if you have not had one drop of alcohol to drink.

Knowing your rights is imperative if you want to avoid unfounded DUI charges.  For more information, and to protect yourself, consult with a San Diego County DUI attorney.