What You Should Do If the Police Pull You Over for Drunk Driving in Chicago

Chicago DUI Defense Attorneys

When the police pull you over, the officer will make a number of requests, especially if they suspect you have been drinking. You should comply with the officer’s initial requests of pulling your car over safely and providing your license and registration, but you should refuse to perform field sobriety tests and breathalyzer tests.

A traffic stop for suspected drunk driving begins with the officer signaling for you to pull your vehicle to the side of the road or into an appropriate parking area. Ignoring the flashing lights is a bad idea in any situation. Instead, you should comply with the officer’s request by carefully and safely pulling your car out of traffic and off to the side of the road. Be sure to remain parallel with the curb or shoulder to avoid providing additional suspicion that you are impaired.

When the officer approaches your vehicle, be polite, courteous, and ready to provide your driver’s license, registration, and, in most cases, proof of liability insurance. You should keep these documents in an easily-accessible location in your vehicle. Scrambling to find them when asked will only increase the appearance of impairment due to alcohol, even if drinking has nothing to do with it.

Refusing Breathalyzers and Field Sobriety Tests

If you are asked to step out of the vehicle, you should do so. At that point, the officer may ask you to submit to a breathalyzer or a series of field sobriety tests. Though there may be administrative penalties for refusing a test—which we at Luisi Legal Group can help you with—you should politely but firmly refuse any type of testing. The reason is simple: if you don't submit to the tests, you can’t fail them. Failing such tests will provide police and prosecutors evidence that will be used against you.

Experienced Chicago DUI Defense Attorneys

When you have been charged with driving under the influence (DUI), the right attorney can make a world of difference in the outcome of your case. At our law firm, we will work hard to protect your rights and help get you back on the road as soon as possible. We have a proven track-record of success, and we are ready to put that experience to work for you. Call 773-276-5541 for a free, confidential consultation at Luisi Legal Group today. We proudly serve clients in all of Cook County's neighborhoods, including Lincoln Park, Humboldt Park, Logan Square, Bucktown, and Wicker Park.