The safest choice is not to drive after drinking. Plan a sober ride before getting behind the wheel. If you are stopped by law enforcement, focus on safety and avoid an argument at the roadside.
Stay calm and communicate clearly
Pull over safely, keep your hands visible and avoid sudden movements. If you need to reach for documents, tell the officer what you are doing. Keep your driver’s license, registration and insurance information accessible.
A stressful encounter is not the place to try to argue the merits of a future case. A lawyer can later review the reports, recordings and circumstances of the stop.
Understand that testing questions are specific
Roadside observations and chemical testing involve different procedures. Do not treat general internet advice as a rule for whether to take or refuse a particular test. Ask for an explanation of the procedure and any rights notice, and seek legal advice about the circumstances of your case.
Make a record afterward
As soon as you safely can, write down the time and location of the stop, the officer’s name if known, what was said and the tests or other procedures involved. Keep any charging documents and court-date information.
Have the case reviewed
An attorney can examine the stop, testing and available evidence and explain the next steps. Contact the firm about DWI representation in Harnett County or Fuquay-Varina.
This article provides general information, not advice for an individual case.