A traffic stop could lead to serious criminal charges if the police suspect that you are inebriated. A drunk driving charge can lead to fines, incarceration and a criminal record, which can hurt your housing, employment and education opportunities.
Knowing your rights during a traffic stop could protect your future. Here is what you should know about traffic stops:
Remain silent
Under the Fifth Amendment, you have the right to remain silent. This can help if the police ask you any questions. When the police ask questions during traffic stops, they are looking for incriminating comments that could be used against you during a criminal trial. By pleading the Fifth, stating that you wish to remain silent or by stating that you will not answer any questions, you can protect yourself from making self-incriminating comments.
Do not give the police permission to search your vehicle
Another way the police will try to gather evidence is by asking to search your vehicle. Even if you believe you have no evidence that would lead to additional charges, that does not mean you have to let the police search your vehicle. Under the Fourth Amendment, the police can not perform unreasonable searches, which means they must either have consent from the driver or have a warrant.
Know when you can record the police
While the police often have cameras on their bodies to record their actions, you can also record the police under the First Amendment. You can record the police to make them accountable only if you are not directly interfering with police duties.
If you believe the police violated your rights, you can learn about your defense options.