Thousands of people each year are found guilty of a drunk driving offence, which means it’s likely you will be at some point. Besides the obvious mistake of, you know… not doing it, there are several other mistakes to avoid too.
So, to put yourself in the best possible position should this day come, here’s what to avoid in a drunk driving incident. You’ve been warned!
Ignoring the charge
Ignoring any legal charge is a severe mistake, and no, it won’t just drift away and disappear. Failure to appear in court if requested and failure to deal with any fines will not help your situation in the slightest. It’ll just hurt you severely.
In fact, ignoring a DUI will make that DUI even worse. The fine can get larger, and your jail time can get longer. Deal with it, before it gets out of hand.
Not getting proper legal aid
The punishments for this crime can be rather severe. You can lose your license, incite jail time, be given a fine and forced to retake your test and attend a treatment program. Not very fun at all. This in mind, thinking you can just show up at court and be given an easy time is folly.
You have to ensure you enlist the help of a seasoned DUI veteran. Getting legal representation for your DUI charge could help. As we mentioned previously, simply ignoring the charge won’t help matters. Make sure you fight, and defend yourself fiercely.
Making a statement to police and witnesses at the scene
If you are caught in a drunk driving accident, the stresses of the situation can be tough. You may feel the need to fully explain yourself, and perhaps even confess guilt. However, this would be a mistake. If you are the suspected cause of the incident, speaking to the police could be used against you later.
The same goes for speaking to witnesses, or people involved in the accident. Even saying things like ‘I’m sorry’ could be seen as a confession. Keep your lips sealed until you speak with your lawyer. This principle applies after any kind of car accident, too.
Not gathering contact details
On the other hand, if you know beyond a shadow of a doubt that you’re not to blame here, then gather contact details. You’ll need to be able to speak to them about insurance and damages, etc. This information will be impossible to come by later, so gather it now!
Refuse to take the breath test
Any DUI incident involves a breath test, and you can refuse it. But, doing so can mean you’ll be charged with non-compliance as well as a possible DUI. Why bother receiving both? If you were drinking, the truth will come out sooner or later. Better to take the test and then fight aggressively in court later.
In conclusion
In short, make sure you don’t drink and drive! It’s really not worth the risk, or indeed, the alcohol. If you do find yourself in a pickle, follow these tips to make sure you don’t commit any tragic mistakes. Your license, your money and your freedom could depend upon it.
