What Happens During a DUI Stop?

After a night out on the town, it may be tempting to slide behind the wheel and take yourself home. You only had two beers, and really, you don’t feel impaired at all. Deciding to drive a vehicle after a couple of drinks can land you in hot water. A DUI traffic stop can cost you time, money and maybe even some time behind bars. What happens during a typical DUI traffic stop?

Officer Assessment

When you get pulled over on suspicion of driving under the influence, the officer will approach and engage you in conversation. Doing so gives the officer a chance to evaluate the way you look, smell and engage in conversation. If the officer feels you exhibit enough signs of impairment, you will be informed of the suspicions.

Field Sobriety Test

The next step in the stop may be a field sobriety test. The officer will have you exit your vehicle and go through a series of physical tasks meant to test your stability and ability to follow directions. Typical exercises include nystagmus gaze test, toe-to-toe straight-line walking test and balancing on one leg. Failing this portion of the test may make you want to get in touch with a dui law firm in Hillsborough county.

Breathalyzer

Finally, the officer may ask you to submit to a breathalyzer test. This tool allows the police to measure how much alcohol is in your system right on the spot. You have the option to forego a breathalyzer and get a blood test. This is done at a hospital. No matter which test you take, a result demonstrating a blood alcohol content of 0.08 or greater means you are legally impaired, and you may get arrested. Calling a DUI law firm in Hillsborough County may be something to consider at this point.

Being pulled over for a DUI is no laughing matter, especially if you have been indulging in alcohol. Knowing what goes on in a traffic stop may help you realize calling someone for a ride home is the right decision.