It's 2022 and you're driving home from a night out with your friends. Suddenly, you see red and blue lights in your rearview mirror. You've been pulled over for a DUI checkpoint. What do you do? In this blog post, we will discuss all the basics you need to know about DUI checkpoints! We'll talk about what to expect during a checkpoint stop, what the consequences are for getting caught drunk driving, and more!
What Does DUI Stand For?
DUI stands for “driving under the influence.” This means that you are driving with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .08% or higher. If you are caught driving with a BAC of .08% or higher, you will be arrested for DUI.
What Is a DUI Checkpoint?
A DUI checkpoint is a roadblock set up by law enforcement in order to catch drunk drivers. At a checkpoint, officers will pull over drivers and check their sobriety. If they believe that you are intoxicated, they will arrest you on the spot.
Checkpoints are typically set up on weekends and holidays when there is an increased amount of drunk driving. They are also often set up near bars and clubs, as well as on roads leading to and from popular party spots.
What Happens When You Get Pulled Over At a Checkpoint?
When you are pulled over at a checkpoint, the officer will ask for your license and registration. They will also ask you if you have been drinking. It is important to be honest with the officer, as lying will only make the situation worse.
If the officer believes that you are intoxicated, they will administer a field sobriety test. This test is designed to determine whether or not you are too impaired to drive. If you fail the test, you will be arrested on the spot.
What to Do If You Approach A DUI Checkpoint
If you see a DUI checkpoint ahead, there are a few things you can do to avoid it. First, you can turn around and take a different route. This is the best option if you have been drinking and do not want to risk getting pulled over.
Second, you can slow down and approach the checkpoint with caution. This will give you time to decide whether or not to stop.
Third, you can stop at the checkpoint and cooperate with the officers. If you have not been drinking, this is usually the best option.
What Are Roadside Sobriety Tests?
Roadside sobriety tests are tests that officers use to determine if a driver is intoxicated. These tests are typically used when an officer has pulled over a driver for suspicion of DUI.
There are three main types of roadside sobriety tests: the horizontal gaze nystagmus test, the walk-and-turn test, and the one-leg stand test.
- The horizontal gaze nystagmus test is when an officer asks you to follow a moving object with your eyes. If your eyes jerk or twitch while following the object, it may be an indication of intoxication.
- The walk-and-turn test is when an officer asks you to walk heel-to-toe in a straight line. If you cannot walk in a straight line, or if you lose your balance, it may be an indication of intoxication.
- The one-leg stand test is when an officer asks you to stand on one leg and count out loud. If you cannot stand on one leg without wobbling, or if you cannot count correctly, it may be an indication of intoxication.
What Are the Consequences of Getting Arrested for DUI?
The consequences of getting arrested for DUI depend on the state in which you are arrested. In most states, a first-time DUI offense is a misdemeanor. This means that you could face up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $1000. You will also have your driver's license suspended for up to six months.
In some states, however, a first-time DUI offense is a felony. This means that you could face up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $5000. You will also have your driver's license suspended for up to one year.
If you are caught driving drunk with a child in the car, the consequences are even more severe. In this case, you could face up to ten years in prison and a fine of up to $10000. You will also have your driver's license suspended for up to two years.
DUI checkpoints are an important tool in the fight against drunk driving. If you are ever pulled over at a checkpoint, be sure to follow the officer's instructions and cooperate with their investigation. If you are arrested for DUI, contact a qualified attorney who can help you navigate the legal process and protect your rights.
Do You Need a DUI Lawyer You Can Trust?
With Lynn Gorelick you don't have to face criminal charges alone. You will receive personal attention to your case. Ms. Gorelick will be the one to appear in court with you from beginning to end. Ms. Gorelick, herself, will be doing your DMV hearings. You will not be handed off to another attorney or associate. You deserve this kind of attention to your needs at this stressful time. Ms. Gorelick has represented people charged with DUI for over 38 years. She has NEVER been a prosecutor who pursues convictions. She has only DEFENDED people accused of crimes. Contact us today for your consultation!
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