Must-Know Tips to Help Prevent a DUI Conviction
Many Americans, before talking with DUI accident attorneys, believe DUI convictions are pretty straightforward. Sure, everyone’s heard the story of a friend or coworker who has a few too many drinks, hops in the car, and gets arrested when they blow above a .08 on their Breathalyzer test.
But the truth is, DUI convictions aren’t always that simple. Many factors can play into the situation – and knowing these may make the difference between a conviction and the ability to walk away from the scene scott-free. Let’s dig right in:
8 Precautionary Steps YOU Can Take
Luckily, there are several things you can do on your own to help minimize the chances of being pulled over while driving:
- Check your vehicle’s lights monthly – Many people who are arrested for a DUI are actually pulled over for another reason – like faulty lights on their car. Every month, turn on all the lights in your car – the headlights, taillights, and brake lights. Make sure they’re properly aimed and working correctly.
- Check your license plates – Make sure you have the current stickers on the plates and that they’re properly affixed to your vehicle.
- Watch your car’s appearance – Police officers are much more likely to pull you over if your windows are darkly tinted, your car has body damage that you’ve never gotten fixed, or you have a loud exhaust pipe.
- Avoid “peak” times – You’re much more likely to be pulled over around bar close, after sporting events, large festivals, etc. Whenever you can, avoid driving at these peak times.
- Blend in with traffic – Try to drive near other cars, while still keeping a safe distance. Recent studies have shown you’re much less likely to get pulled over if you’re in the flow of traffic with other vehicles.
- Eliminate distractions – Avoid loud music, dashboard GPS units, and rowdy friends. Your focus should be on the road and not on what’s going on inside your car.
- Take an alternate route – If the normal route you take home is lined with bars and restaurants, consider finding a different way. Areas like this are where you’ll find the most law enforcement officials, thus increasing your chance of getting pulled over. Even if your new route takes a bit longer, it could be well worth it in the end.
- Throw your keys far, far away – This sounds silly, yes. But, if you ever decide you’ve had too much to drink and want to sleep it off in your car, you can still be considered in physical control of the vehicle and subject to questioning if an officer would find you this way. Instead, place the keys as far away from you as possible – perhaps in a cubby in the back seat.
The above tips are designed to help you get home safely and avoid being pulled over. However, if you’ve had too many drinks, it’s always best to have a designated driver or to call a taxicab for a safe ride home.
Article courtesy of accident lawyer experts at Accidents.com
