You’ve been out on the town or out with your buddies after work and you had a good time – but all those happy feelings can vanish in an instant when you spot the flash of red and blue lights behind you.
Being pulled over on suspicion of drunk driving is never comfortable – but don’t let your anxiety take control and lead you into saying things that you could ultimately regret. Saying the wrong thing during a traffic stop can hand a prosecutor just the evidence they need to convict you of drunk driving.
Here are some phrases that are always mistakes:
1. “I only had a couple of drinks.”
This is probably the number one thing people say that gets them into trouble. First, the officer isn’t going to believe you. Second, you just admitted to drinking before driving. That admission can be used as evidence against you, and it can give the officer probable cause to make an arrest.
2. “I’ll fail the test anyway.”
You don’t get points with the police just for being honest. Never predict failure, whether you’re talking about a field sobriety test (like the “walk-and-turn” or “one-legged stand” tests) or a breathalyzer. These can be seen as admissions of guilt. If you are asked to take any tests, you can politely comply or decline – but don’t make any self-incriminating comments.
3. “I’m not drunk.”
When the officer strides up to your window, don’t assume you know what the traffic stop is about. For all you know, you may have a burnt-out taillight. Even if the officer asks if you know why you are stopped, it is better to say that you don’t and let them inform you. Volunteering a defense before you’re even accused of something just raises suspicions.
Ultimately, your goal during any traffic stop is just to get through it with a minimum of trouble. If your next traffic stop turns into a drunk driving charge, however, it is always wisest to seek legal guidance.