Getting charged with driving under the influence (DUI) can feel overwhelming, but it’s important to remember that you have options. Defending yourself against a DUI charge involves understanding the circumstances surrounding your arrest and the evidence presented..
Questioning the legality of the traffic stop
One of the first things to consider is whether the police had a valid reason to stop you in the first place. For an officer to pull you over, they must have probable cause, such as observing erratic driving behavior or a traffic violation. If the officer didn’t have a legitimate reason to stop you, the court might rule the evidence obtained during the stop as inadmissible.
Challenging field sobriety tests
Field sobriety tests (FSTs) are used by police to assess your level of impairment. However, these tests can be influenced by factors unrelated to alcohol, such as weather conditions, medical conditions, or even the road’s surface. You may be able to challenge the validity of the FSTs if there was a reasonable explanation for your performance.
Disputing breathalyzer results
Breath tests are commonly used to measure blood alcohol content (BAC). However, these devices are not foolproof. If the machine was not properly calibrated, or if the test was administered incorrectly, you may have grounds to dispute the results. Additionally, certain medical conditions can interfere with breath test readings, which could be used as part of your defense.
Examining the accuracy of blood tests
Blood tests are another method to determine BAC, but they too are not flawless. Errors can occur in the collection process, the handling of the sample, or the analysis of the blood itself. If there’s any doubt about the accuracy of the test results, you could have a strong defense against the DUI charge.
Fighting a DUI charge requires an understanding of the evidence, the procedures followed during your arrest, and your rights. With the right approach, you may be able to challenge the case against you. The key is to explore all options and consider how each piece of evidence fits into the overall picture.
