After an enjoyable evening with friends and family, your furthest concern is a criminal charge of Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol. However, in the heat of the moment, many El Paso County drivers fail to remember what actions to take if pulled over by law enforcement. It is especially important to be prepared in these situations and seek expert council from a Colorado Springs DUI lawyer if charged.
El Paso County Roadside DUI Tests
Police officers in El Paso County, Colorado pull drivers over whenever they suspect unlawful behavior behind the wheel. Next, they focus their efforts on acquiring probable cause in order to make an arrest. The easiest and fastest way for them to do so is to request that you take part in some voluntary roadside maneuvers. Should you decide to take part in these tests, you are simply providing law enforcement with probable cause to arrest you. It is in your best interest to always decline these maneuvers, they are in fact voluntary.
Roadside DUI Tests in Colorado Springs
Examples of roadside tests that police officers may ask you take include:
- walk & turn
- one-leg stand
- alphabet
- Romberg
- nystagmus
These tests each present indicators of intoxication that law enforcement look for if someone decides to participate. As you can see, there is simply no benefit to agreeing to these tests. Police officers are also to ask for your consent to take these tests. However, they often push their own agenda with lingo that sounds as if they’re a requirement. They might also state that they “need” you to exit the vehicle and take some tests. Nonetheless, it is in your best interest to decline.
El Paso County Mandatory Blood or Breath Test
In the event that you are in fact arrested, there is a mandatory test that must be taken to determine your blood alcohol level (BAC). All Colorado drivers are required to participate in this exam via expressed consent. This means that drivers have agreed in advance to participate in a blood or breath test that determines BAC. Refusing to participate in this test is unwise and can result in the loss of your Colorado driver’s license for one year.
Colorado Springs DUI Lawyer | Expert Criminal Defense
It is important to be aware that El Paso County police are pulling you over with a conviction in mind when it comes to suspected drunk driving. Don’t give them additional probable cause by agreeing to their roadside tests. Exercise your right to remain silent and call an experienced Colorado Springs DUI lawyer who can assess your unique situation and prioritize your best possible outcome.
If you or someone you know is facing driving under the influence charges, be smart. Contact the reputable criminal defense attorneys at Sawyer Legal Group at 303-265-1950. Together, we can protect your future.
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