Going out for a night on the town in Texas with friends or family is a great way to relieve stress and catch up while reminiscing about old times. However, the night can quickly take a negative turn if the police pull you over after having a few drinks. Traffic stops are always stressful, but the presence of alcohol in your system makes them even more problematic. So, what are your rights in the state of Texas when it comes to DWI?
Provide the Officer with Your License
When faced with a DWI traffic stop, be sure to comply with what the officer asks of you. This advice includes handing over your driver’s license, proof of insurance, and vehicle registration. The officer will likely ask you if the address on your license is current. If it is, reply, “Yes.” If it isn’t, provide the officer with your current address and then do not say anything else. Do not offer any information about where you are coming from, where you are driving to, or anything else about what you did earlier that day.
Right to Refuse
Under Texas DWI laws, you have the right to refuse roadside breath tests and roadside field sobriety tests. Even though this is well within your rights, you could wind up having your driver’s license suspended for doing so. It’s still a smart idea to refuse these tests because they are only methods for the officer to collect evidence against you. Instead, it’s better to undergo more sophisticated tests at the police station, such as a blood test, to determine your level of intoxication. Remember, we always advise, Do Not Blow!
Always Be Polite
It can be challenging to remain polite when pulled over by an officer, especially if he or she isn’t remaining respectful. Protect yourself and your rights in a DWI traffic stop by being polite and concise. Respectfully decline to answer the officer’s questions and allow your attorney to do the talking at a later time.
Consult with an Attorney
Now that you know your rights when pulled over for DWI in Texas, you should always consult with a DWI attorney if you ever find yourself in such a situation. You will need to handle the traffic stop since your lawyer cannot always be with you. As soon as you can make a call, do so to a reputable attorney. Fighting a DWI charge alone is not in your best interest. The laws are complicated. You shouldn’t risk spending time in jail and paying a hefty fine because you think you can represent yourself.
Pulled Over for DWI? Speak with an Attorney Immediately
If you were pulled over for suspicion of DWI, protect your rights by speaking to an experienced defense attorney as soon as possible. Call the office of Flood & Associates at 713-224-5529 to schedule a consultation with a Houston DWI lawyer. Don’t let a DWI charge ruin your life. Know your rights and realize there are people out there who will fight to protect them.
