If the police pull you over on suspicion of DWI in Missouri, your actions can affect the outcome of your case. While you can trust your Missouri DWI lawyer to work hard for a positive result in your case so you can avoid the consequences of a DWI conviction, keeping these tips in mind may be the difference between a dismissal and a conviction.

What Should I Do If Law Enforcement Stops Me? 

If the police pull you over after you have been drinking, you might panic and not know what to do. Consider taking these steps to protect your legal rights at a DWI traffic stop:

• Be respectful of the officer – By cooperating with the police and being polite, you may avoid increased scrutiny from the officer. Refusing to speak to the police officer or engaging in belligerent behavior may needlessly escalate the situation.
• Be mindful of your right to remain silent – Upon request, provide the officer with your driver’s license, insurance card, and registration information. However, you do not have to provide information about whether you have consumed alcohol. Be cooperative, but understand that the officer is looking for information to move forward with their investigation, and you have the right to remain silent.
• Remember you are likely being recorded – In Missouri, law enforcement can record the DWI stop with a squad car camera. This video footage can later serve as evidence supporting the officer’s decision to arrest you, so act appropriately and be respectful of the police officer during the stop.

Do I Have To Do A Field Sobriety Test Or A Breath Test? 

During the DWI stop, the officer may ask you to perform a field sobriety test. Why? They are seeking evidence to demonstrate that you are impaired and driving under the influence. You can refuse to perform a field sobriety test, but be sure to do so in polite language.

While you can refuse to take a breath test, your refusal will be considered a violation of Missouri’s implied consent law, and your driving privileges will be revoked for one year as a “chemical revocation.” This is a permanent part of your driving record and can never be removed.

As you can see, your actions after a DWI stop can have serious consequences. Understanding your rights and potential penalties if you are stopped for suspicion of DWI can critically impact your DWI case and driving record.

Contact Frank & Juengel Law Group P.C. 

You do not have to face DWI charges alone. At Frank & Juengel Law Group P.C., we are here to help in all aspects of your DWI case and any criminal law matters you may be facing. From answering questions about the potential consequences of a DWI conviction to representing you in court, an experienced criminal defense lawyer from our firm will assist you in navigating the Missouri criminal law system. Contact us online or call today to speak to a lawyer in a free consultation.