DUI FAQ

Driving under the influence is a serious charge that can have severe repercussions. Below are some of the most commonly asked questions about DUI cases, answered by our experienced attorneys to help you understand your rights and responsibilities.

What Do the Police Look for When Spotting Drunk Drivers?

Police officers in Somerset and beyond are trained to identify behaviors that indicate impaired driving. These signs usually include:

• Swerving between lanes
• Driving below the speed limit without reason
• Hugging or crossing lane markers

If the police observe any of these cues, they are likely to stop your vehicle to investigate further. At that point, they may ask you to pull over for a closer assessment.

What Happens After the Officer Stops You?

Once you have been pulled over, the officer will look for specific signs of intoxication, including:

• The smell of alcohol in the car or on your breath
• Slurred speech and difficulty conversing
• Red or bloodshot eyes
• Struggling to locate your license or confusion while responding to questions
• Signs of physical disorientation, such as fumbling or stumbling

Officers may also request that you step out of the vehicle to observe whether you appear unsteady or sway while standing.

What Should I Say If Asked Whether I Have Been Drinking?

If asked whether you have consumed alcohol, refrain from admitting to it. Anything you say might later be used against you in court. You are not required to answer this question outright, and it’s your right to remain silent. Instead:

• Politely decline to answer without a Somerset DUI attorney present
• Avoid being confrontational or argumentative during the interaction
• If arrested, cooperate fully but wait to speak further until your Somerset criminal lawyer is available

Engaging with an officer in a polite and respectful tone can go a long way toward maintaining your composure during a stressful situation.

Does Participation in a Field Sobriety Test Impact Your Charges?

What You Need to Know About Field Sobriety Tests

Legally, participating in a field sobriety test is optional, but the outcome can influence the charges against you. Officers often request the test to gather more evidence of intoxication.

• If you voluntarily take the test and fail due to impairment, the evidence could be used to build a stronger case against you.
• Declining the test may raise suspicions further, but it denies officers additional evidence that could be used at trial.

For tailored advice based on your situation, consult your Somerset DUI attorney before making a decision.

Should You Take a Chemical Test (Breath or Blood Test)?

Legal Implications of Chemical Tests

Chemical tests (breath, blood, or urine) help measure your Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC). Refusing these tests comes with serious consequences:

• If you refuse, Pennsylvania law mandates a one-year driver’s license suspension.
• BAC results of 0.08% or higher may lead to a DUI charge.

Guidelines for Choosing to Cooperate

To decide whether to take the test:

• If your BAC is likely moderate (0.08%-0.099%) and you don’t have any prior DUI convictions, taking the test could reduce your penalties.
• If you suspect an excessively high BAC (e.g., after consuming more than three drinks) and have prior DUI charges, refusing the test might minimize potential consequences.

Speak with a Somerset criminal lawyer for guidance before taking a chemical test in these circumstances.

Are Miranda Rights Always Required for DUI Arrests?

Contrary to popular belief, police officers are not obligated to read Miranda Rights upon pulling you over. Miranda warnings are only required if the suspect is being put through a custodial interrogation, not during initial stops or preliminary questioning. If you have specific questions about your rights, discuss your options with a Somerset DUI attorney.

Is It Legal to Turn Around to Avoid a Somerset DUI Checkpoint?

You may legally turn around upon seeing a DUI checkpoint, provided no laws are broken in the process. However, ensure you observe traffic regulations, as making an illegal U-turn could give officers reason to stop you.

For example:

• Avoid driving recklessly to evade the checkpoint
• Follow proper turning rules to prevent further violations

For further clarity regarding your rights, reach out to a Somerset criminal lawyer for personalized advice.

Speak to Experienced Somerset DUI Attorneys Today

If you’re facing DUI charges, working with an experienced lawyer can make all the difference in your case. At Logue Law Group, our Somerset DUI attorneys are available around the clock to provide strategic guidance and representation.

Contact us online or call (844) PITT-DUI for a free consultation today. Protect your rights and get the legal support you deserve.