If police pull you over for suspicion of driving under the influence in the Florida Keys, it’s crucial that you understand your rights. Doing or saying the wrong thing during a traffic stop can harm your case and make you more likely to receive a fine, jail time, or other penalty.
Do I Need to Answer the Officer’s Questions?
While you should answer some of the officer’s questions, like giving them your name when asked, you do not have to answer any incriminating questions. If the officer asks how much you’ve had to drink or where you’re coming from, you have the right to remain silent.
Can I Decline Field Sobriety Tests?
Police officers use field sobriety tests to check for coordination and cognitive ability. These tests are often recorded on the officer’s body or dash camera and can be key evidence used against you. You can politely decline to participate in these tests.
Can I Decline Breathalyzer or Blood Tests?
Unfortunately, you cannot decline a breathalyzer or blood test if a police officer pulls you over for a suspected DUI. Florida’s implied consent law states that drivers automatically consent to these tests as a condition of having driving privileges in the state. If you do decline the test while in custody, your driving privileges will be suspended and it can be used against you in criminal proceedings as evidence of guilt.
When Do I Need an Attorney?
You should consult an attorney as early as possible if the police pull you over for a suspected DUI. The sooner you speak with a DUI defense attorney, the sooner they can provide you with legal advice and help protect your rights. A DUI conviction can impact your job, education, and ability to drive, so it’s not something to take lightly.
Contact Our DUI Defense Attorneys Serving Monroe County
At Reed Palacios Law, our DUI defense attorneys are ready to put our local experience to work for you. Contact us online or call our law office today at 305-686-2435 for a free case evaluation and legal consultation.