Being pulled over by police is an experience people would rather avoid. No one wants to get ticketed, or worse, arrested for a mistake they’ve made behind the wheel. This can be especially true in the context of drunk driving. But people all across Minnesota are pulled over for a drunk driving mistake.
One thing to remember if you are pulled over by police is that you can immediately be at a disadvantage if you don’t realize why an officer may be doing or asking your certain things. In many cases, they are looking for signs of intoxication.
For instance, asking you several questions can give police the opportunity to look for:
- Slurred speech
- Rapid or repetitive speech
- Changes in vocal volume
- Slow responses or confusion
Shining a flashlight in your car can allow the officer to see:
- Bloodshot eyes
- Alcohol containers in the vehicle
- Stamps on your hands or wristbands indicating attendance at bars
- Excessive sweating
When police ask you to roll your window down, it can give them a chance to:
- Smell your breath
- Observe your ability to sit still and without swaying
- More closely look for signs of clumsiness
As you should see, even seemingly harmless requests can provide police officers a wealth of information that confirms — or raises — their suspicions of drunk driving.
Knowing what police are looking for during a stop can help you understand how certain behaviors will likely be interpreted. For more information on how you might want to respond to these and other police requests if you are pulled over, you can read this article on our website.
A drunk driving arrest can be scary and embarrassing. However, you don’t have to go through this difficult time alone. Working with an experience criminal defense attorney can help you make informed decisions about defending yourself and protecting your rights.
