Driving Under the Influence or DUI is one of the top dangers drivers are facing in recent years. According to the Centers for Disease and Control (CDC), nearly 1 million had been arrested for DUI in 2015. Over 111 million people have self-reported incidents when they drive under the influence of alcohol. There is still an increase in accidents due to DUI — despite drivers being continually warned about its dangers.
If you ever find yourself being accused of DUI, the first thing to do is to contact a reliable legal advisor like Baumgartner Law Firm. To avoid further disasters, follow the tips below:
One: Don’t Stipulate to the BAC.
Breath Alcohol Concentration (BAC) reading is done in order to verify whether you are really driving under the influence of alcohol. The results are usually precise, accurate, and reliable. If they are against you, they can be proof that you are guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. The last thing you want to do is for you or your lawyer to stipulate to it. One way to go against a BAC reading is to question the equipment used or the person handling it.
Two: Question The Roadside Tests.
Different phases of DUI detection are taught to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP). Sometimes, however, officers deviate from the rules and make mistakes. A lawyer that knows everything about DUI detection will be able to detect these mistakes upon thorough investigation. You might want to read about the different DUI detection phases yourself, so you’ll know whether the officer who caught you has followed them by the book.
Three: Don’t Accuse An Officer Of Being A Liar.
No matter which court you’re in, directly accusing an officer of being a liar is not a solid defense. In fact, it is a sign of desperation. Instead of convincing the judge of the officer’s lying tendencies, you might want to point out uncertainties and inconsistencies in his testimony. That is a more reliable defense.
Four: Consulting A Specialist.
Though many defense attorneys claim to be DUI lawyers, only a few of them truly understand the law surrounding the case. Unless they are specialized DUI lawyers, it’s impossible for them to know everything about the technology and how it’s used in DUI detection. Sometimes, even a specialist will need help from someone with PhD-level of understanding of the science behind the DUI case. Thus, don’t hesitate to seek other professional help.
Five: Use Expert Witnesses.
Witnesses can make or break your case. The best way for you to build your defense is to find an expert witness that will prove your innocence. An expert testimony can also deal with the intricacies of the BAC’s reliability.
Final Thoughts
Are you accused of driving under the influence? Whether the accusation is true or not, the smartest move you can make is to hire a legal adviser and build a strong defense to prove your innocence.
