There is y nothing wrong with enjoying a few drinks with friends or family. However, operating a motor vehicle after drinking is a different story altogether.
If you have been pulled over on suspicion of driving under influence (DUI), it is important to understand what you can, and cannot, do. Here are some of the rights you need to know when you have been stopped for DUI in Georgia.
The right to be free from unreasonable stop
The law enforcement officer cannot pull you over on mere gut feeling. They must reasonable suspicion to stop you. Are you violating basic traffic rules like maintaining your lane, driving recklessly or overrunning stop signals? These are some of the reasons the police may pull you over on DUI suspicion.
The right to remain silent
It is not uncommon for law enforcement to ask whether you have been drinking or how many drinks you had. You do not have to answer these questions. All you need to do is politely reply that you wish to exercise your right to stay silent.
The right to a clear explanation of any tests
Once you have been stopped, the police may ask you to take field sobriety tests or a blood alcohol content (BAC) test. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) outlines the manner in which these tests should be conducted. If the police fail to follow the right procedure while administering any of these tests, then you may challenge them over it in court.
DUI is a serious offense with severe penalties. If you have been stopped on suspicion of drunk driving, it is in your best interest that you understand your rights as well as the legal options available to you.
