Maryland Dui Checkpoints
DUI laws are getting tougher all across the country. The blood alcohol content (BAC) limits have gone down, and the punishment rates have gone up. Getting pulled over is one thing, but it’s another when you have to get out of the car and discuss things over with the police, especially if they believe you may have been drinking. An exception to this is if you have driven into a sobriety checkpoint. These are set up as roadblocks, and are designed as devices to promote public safety. Make no mistake: driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is a serious offense. But you do have rights if you are pulled over.
Penalties for DUI include:
• Points off your license
• Fines
• Insurance increases
• Jail time
• Probation
• Possible loss of employment
Being charged with a DUI can be potentially life changing. However, if the police want to charge you, you need to know what your rights are so you can protect them as soon as you are accused of DUI.
Your Rights
• Decline answering any questions until you speak to a lawyer
• Contact your lawyer at any time
• The right to a lawyer being present when you answer any questions
• If you cannot reach your lawyer, you have the right to decline answering any questions at all
• Decline answering any questions if you are taken into custody
• Decline to perform any field sobriety tests (alphabet test, walk the line, eye test, and more).
• Refuse to consent to a search of your car or yourself unless arrested
• May leave if you are not placed under arrest
• Must be advised that you are being placed under arrest
• Decline to give a breath test at the station until you have spoken to a lawyer
Many people have found themselves driving home from dinner or a night out, and then being arrested after having only a couple drinks. While there are definitely drunk drivers on the road who are a menace to others, many innocent people are pulled into the system by harsh DUI laws. It is up to you to know that if and when you are caught up by the authorities and possibly arrested for suspicion of DUI, you still have rights like anyone else.
About the Author:
If you are in need of a lawyer who will help defend you against your DUI charge in the Baltimore, Maryland area, please contact the law offices of Cohen & Dwin, P.A.
Article Source: ArticlesBase.com – Under Suspicion for Dui? Know Your Rights
Tags: DUI Checkpoints, maryland dui checkpoints
