Drinking is one of America’s many luxuries. Millions of drivers are caught, arrested and charged for driving under the influence every year. People are always trying to work around laws and, because of this, many people misconceptions propagate.
It’s often important to debunk common DUI myths for public safety. Here’s what you should know:
Myth #1: You are required to answer all questions from the police
Truth: It is highly likely police will interrogate a driver, after pulling them over, however, the driver has the right to remain silent. In other words, the driver may politely refrain from answering questions that may incriminate them. A driver exercising their rights may still face consequences, however, and police may arrest the driver and take them into custody.
Myth #2: You don’t have to take breath tests
Truth: Police will likely use a couple of methods to evaluate if a driver is driving under the influence unless there was clear evidence (open alcohol bottle, slurred speech or alcohol on a person’s breath) that they were breaking the law. The most commonly used method is a breathalyzer test, which can’t be refused without facing higher criminal charges. People can refuse field sobriety tests, which are voluntary evaluations.
Myth #3: You just have to drive carefully
Truth: Police need probable cause to pull drivers over under the suspicion of driving under the influence, but that doesn’t mean drivers can’t be pulled over for other reasons. For example, if police find someone driving at night without their lights on, it could lead to an officer finding the person had been driving under the influence. Even if there was an accident where the other driver was the cause of the collision, police may find the victim was under the influence of alcohol or substance.
Myth #4: A DUI isn’t enough to seek legal help
Truth: People shouldn’t dismiss DUI charges no matter how minor the issue may seem. Any kind of criminal charge can damage a person’s image for years. If you’re facing a DUI charge, you may need to know your legal options.