DUI FAQ

Understanding the complexities surrounding DUI laws can be overwhelming. To help, our Uniontown criminal lawyers at Logue Law Group have provided answers to some commonly asked questions regarding DUI traffic stops, testing, and rights. Whether you’re being proactive or facing charges, this guide is tailored to inform you about your legal options and obligations.

What Do Police Look for When Identifying Impaired Drivers?

Law enforcement officers in Fayette County and beyond are extensively trained to spot signs of impaired driving. These behaviors often prompt traffic stops and can include:

• Weaving or swerving across lanes
• Driving substantially below the speed limit
• Straddling the centerline of the road

If such behavior is observed, police are likely to pull the vehicle over and assess for further signs of impairment. Stay calm and comply if requested to pull over.

What Happens After You’re Pulled Over?

After stopping your vehicle, officers typically look for obvious signs of intoxication. These may include:

• The scent of alcohol in your car or on your breath
• Bloodshot or watery eyes
• Slurred speech or confusion
• Difficulty retrieving your driver’s license

Law enforcement in Fayette County may also engage you in a conversation to gauge your comprehension and coherence. They could request you exit the vehicle if they suspect impairment to observe your balance and physical stability.

How to Respond if Asked About Drinking

If asked whether you’ve consumed alcohol, the best course of action is to avoid admission. Any acknowledgment could be used out of context in court. Politely inform the officer that you wish to remain silent and request your Uniontown DUI lawyer. Refrain from making statements or engaging confrontationally, as this can worsen the situation.

Should You Take a Field Sobriety Test?

Field sobriety tests often play a significant role in DUI investigations, but they are not as straightforward as they seem. Here are key points to consider:

• Taking the Test: While participating could further validate the officer’s suspicions if you’re impaired, the results are often used as evidence against you.
• Refusing the Test: Choosing not to comply can reinforce the officer’s belief of impairment, though refusal lacks the objective evidence a completed test might provide.

It’s generally advisable to politely decline the test and speak with a Uniontown criminal lawyer immediately for guidance.

Should You Take the Blood or Breath Test?

Chemical testing methods, such as blood or breath tests, measure your blood alcohol concentration (BAC). A BAC of 0.08% or higher can prompt DUI charges. Refusing these tests carries consequences, including a one-year driver’s license suspension in Pennsylvania.

• When to Take the Test:
  • If your BAC is likely between 0.08% to 0.099%, and you have a clean DUI record, cooperating may reduce penalties.
• When to Refuse the Test:
  • If you’ve had a significant amount to drink or have previous DUI charges on record, refusal may protect you from harsher penalties.

Before making a decision, contact your Uniontown DUI lawyer at Logue Law Group for expert advice on your specific situation.

Do Police Always Have to Read You Your Miranda Rights?

Contrary to popular belief, police are not required to read your Miranda rights immediately upon stopping you for a DUI suspicion. These rights only apply under custodial interrogation. Therefore, the absence of a Miranda warning at the roadside does not automatically exclude subsequent evidence.

Can You Legally Avoid a DUI Checkpoint?

Yes, in Pennsylvania, drivers can legally bypass DUI checkpoints. However, it’s important to avoid illegal maneuvers, like making an unlawful U-turn or violating other traffic laws, as these actions can draw the attention of law enforcement. Ensure your detour does not attract suspicion.

Need Expert Legal Help? Contact Logue Law Group

If you’ve been charged with DUI in Fayette County or are seeking legal advice, our team is here to help. We’ve earned a reputation for successfully defending clients with our in-depth understanding of DUI laws and procedures.

Get a complimentary consultation with an experienced Uniontown DUI lawyer at Logue Law Group. Call us anytime at (844) PITT-DUI, or reach us online. We’re available 24/7 to assist you in securing the best possible outcome.

This guide is carefully crafted to ensure you are informed about your rights and options when facing DUI-related situations. Logue Law Group aims to protect your rights and provide top-tier legal representation in Fayette County and beyond.