When you are stopped for driving under influence (DUI), there is a pretty good chance that your legal representative will not be there with you. You will have to figure out what to do and what to say on your own. This can be scary, to say the least.
If you are like most people, you definitely do not like being asked questions you cannot answer – or don’t want to answer. Your first instinct might be to try to talk yourself out of trouble. But is this always a good idea?
Saying some things can complicate matters for you
A conviction for drunk driving can result in serious consequences. As such, it helps to be mindful of your actions and language during a DUI stop. Here are two things you should never say to the police when stopped for a DUI investigation:
- “I only had a glass of wine over dinner. I cannot be drunk” – This statement admits that you had a drink prior to driving. By admitting that you had some alcohol, you will be giving the officer reason to subject you to the Breathalyzer and field sobriety tests. And this is a very dangerous territory to be in.
- “I wasn’t going to drive. But my designated driver didn’t show up” – Motivation or intent will not let you off the hook. You cannot try to make an excuse for an offense. It’s far better to call for a ride than take a chance.
In reality, silence is golden when you’re asked questions about where you’ve been or what you’ve been drinking. Just politely decline to answer questions without legal representation and wait. Unless the officer has more than a hunch that you’re impaired, that may end the issue.
Drunk driving is a serious offense in Tennessee. Knowing your legal rights can help you work out an effective defense during your trial.
