DUI FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions About DUI in Bedford

Our criminal lawyers have compiled answers to some of the most common questions about DUIs to help you better understand your rights and the law. If you are dealing with a DUI charge, this guide will provide a clear overview of what to expect and how to proceed.

What Do Police Watch for When Looking for Drunk Drivers?

Law enforcement officers in Bedford are trained to identify signs of potentially impaired drivers. Erratic or unusual driving often serves as the first indicator of a suspected DUI. Examples of such behaviors include:

• Weaving between lanes or swerving erratically.
• Driving significantly under the speed limit for no apparent reason.
• Straddling the line dividing lanes.
• Stopping or braking abruptly and without cause.
• Failing to obey traffic signals or signs.

When police observe these indicators, they may pull the vehicle over for further investigation. If you are stopped and they suspect impairment, they might ask you to move your car to a safe location off the road. The best course of action at this point is to contact a Bedford traffic lawyer immediately.

What Will Happen After the Police Stop You?

Once you are pulled over, the officer will look for physical signs of intoxication. These could include:

• The smell of alcohol on your breath or inside the vehicle.
• Slurred speech or difficulty answering questions clearly.
• Bloodshot or glassy eyes.
• Struggling to find your license, registration, or other documents.
• Appearing disoriented or confused.

Additionally, officers will likely engage you in conversation to assess your ability to comprehend and respond to their questions appropriately. If the officer notes further signs of impairment, you may be instructed to get out of the car. They will then observe your physical coordination, looking for things like swaying or trouble standing, which could suggest intoxication. In such situations, speaking with a Bedford speeding ticket attorney as soon as possible is advisable.

What Should You Say if Police Ask Whether You’ve Been Drinking?

If an officer asks if you have been drinking, never admit to consuming alcohol. Anything you say can be used against you in a court of law. It is best to remain polite and composed while avoiding self-incriminating statements. If you are uncertain about how to respond, it is always recommended to refrain from speaking until you have consulted with a Bedford speeding ticket attorney.

Here is a helpful way to handle the situation:

• Politely decline to answer the question.
• Request to speak with your lawyer.

It is also crucial to avoid any confrontations or actions that could antagonize the officer, even if you feel the stop or suspicion is unjustified.

Should You Take a Field Sobriety Test?

In most situations, field sobriety tests are optional. These tests can provide law enforcement with significant evidence to use against you. If you have consumed alcohol, performing the test may confirm their suspicion of a DUI. However, refusing to take the test could also reinforce their belief that you are impaired.

Here is what you should consider:

• Taking the Test: If you have been drinking, the results could strengthen the officer’s case against you. Many officers already suspect impairment before they even administer these tests.
• Refusing the Test: While refusing is not a crime, it might contribute to the officer’s suspicion.

When in doubt, politely decline the test and state your wish to consult with a Bedford traffic lawyer.

Should You Take a Blood or Breath Test?

Chemical tests, such as blood, breath, or urine analysis, are used to determine your Blood Alcohol Content (BAC). If your BAC is 0.08% or higher, DUI charges can be filed. Under West Virginia’s implied consent laws, refusing a chemical test has its own set of consequences, which can include:

• A potential one-year suspension of your driver’s license.
• Additional fees or penalties if you are convicted.

The decision to take this test depends heavily on your specific circumstances:

• If your BAC is likely low (between 0.08% and 0.099%) and you have no prior DUI charges, consenting might lead to lesser penalties.
• If you have consumed a significant amount of alcohol or have previous DUI convictions, refusing the test could prevent additional incriminating evidence from being collected.

It’s vital to weigh these options carefully. Consulting a local Bedford speeding ticket attorney before making your decision can make a substantial difference.

Do Police Officers Need to Read You Your Miranda Rights?

Contrary to popular belief, officers are not required to read your Miranda rights during a DUI traffic stop. Miranda rights only become mandatory during a custodial interrogation, which typically happens after an arrest.

If you’re arrested and then questioned, the police must read you your rights. If they fail to do so, your statements may not be admissible in court. If this has happened to you, a Bedford traffic lawyer can determine whether your rights were violated.

Can You Turn Around to Avoid a DUI Checkpoint?

Yes, in Bedford, you are legally permitted to avoid a DUI checkpoint as long as you do not violate any traffic laws while doing so. For example:

• Making a legal U-turn is allowed, but an illegal one can draw attention and lead to suspicion.
• You must still follow all other traffic rules, such as using your turn signals and adhering to speed limits.

Keep in mind, even if you act legally, police may still take notice and decide to follow or stop you. If this occurs, speaking with a Bedford speeding ticket attorney can help you navigate what comes next.

Seek Help from a Bedford DUI Attorney

The complexities of DUI cases go far beyond the initial traffic stop and roadside tests. An experienced lawyer can offer personalized advice, help you build a strong defense against the charges, and ensure your rights are protected throughout every stage of the legal process.

If you are facing a DUI charge or have more questions, contact Logue Law Group in Bedford for a free consultation. Our Bedford traffic lawyer is available 24/7 to provide dependable legal help. Contact us online today or call us at (844) PITT-DUI.

It’s essential to seek help from a Bedford speeding ticket attorney for the best possible assistance.