Driving under the influence of liquor or controlled substance. We all know the acronym. The result of a DUI arrest can be the loss of your driver license, hefty fines and court costs, and even jail time based on the facts and circumstances of your drunk driving offense conviction. The original traffic stop is often the result of the driver committing a traffic offense such as speeding offences!
The state and jurisdiction that you are arrested in has specific laws relating to your charges. Some states call the offense DWI for Driving While Intoxicated. Other jurisdictions call the charge OWI – Operating While Intoxicated. Regardless of the specifics of the charge, the end result can be the same.
The charges that ultimately are levied against you subsequent to a driving while intoxicated offense are largely dependent on your blood alcohol content at the time of your arrest. (Blood Alcohol Content = BAC). The test to determine your blood alcohol content can be a breathalyzer breath test, a urine test or a blood test. The facts and circumstances surrounding your drunk driving arrest usually determine which test the police officer will offer to you.
What Happens When You Are Stopped for DUI
When stopped by a police officer it’s always best to follow some simple safety tips. After gaining control of your license and other vehicle documents the police officer involved will make observations about your demeanor and actions. The officer will check for signs of an alcohol odor, see if your eyes are blood shot, look at the appearance and arrangement of your clothing, and see if any other actions offered are consistent with someone who has been drinking.
Invariably the officer asks if you have been drinking. Your response to this question can be important, so carefully consider your answer before replying.
Field Sobriety Tests
If the officer has reason to believe you have been drinking they will offer you some field sobriety tests. These tests can include:
- Saying the alphabet
- Counting sequences of numbers
- Walking heel to toe
- Balancing on one foot
- Horizontal gaze nystagmus test
- Preliminary breath test
After careful consideration of your actions in performing these tests the officer will make a determination regarding your arrest. If arrested, you will be offered a blood alcohol test as outlined above
In most states the presumptive level of intoxication is .08% BAC or Blood Alcohol Content. Some states have different standards so it’s best to check yoiur local jurisdiction. Please remember that traffic and DUI laws in countries other than the United States can even be more strict, as they are in the United Kingdom.
Remember that it’s always best not to drive after consuming *any* amount of alcohol.