March 13, 2015 | OVI Rights, OVI Suspension, Plea Negotiations
Police officers in Ohio need only reasonable suspicion that you may be driving under the influence of alcohol in order to pull you over and investigate. In Ohio, the charge of driving while intoxicated is referred to as operating a vehicle under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or OVI.
So, what do you do if you are pulled over for an OVI in Dayton? Below are a few tips and reminders if you are ever placed in this unfortunate of situation.
Pull Over Carefully
Find a safe place and, using your turn signal, pull your car to the far right side of the road. Obey all traffic laws and do not stop too quickly. The police will not immediately assume you have been drinking if you are operating your car in a responsible fashion.
Do Not Leave Your Car
Remain inside your car with your hands on the wheel. Roll your window down so the officer can speak to you. If it is nighttime, turn on your interior light so the officer can see you clearly. Let the officer speak to you first, and when you answer, do not be defensive.
Have All Your Documentation Readily Available
As with any traffic stop, the officer will need to see your driver’s license, registration and auto insurance information. By having these documents ready in advance, you will demonstrate to the officer that you are being obedient.
Politely Decline to Take a Field Sobriety Test
You may be asked to take a set of standardized field sobriety tests. You are under no legal obligation to take the test, however, you will likely be arrested if you refuse. This may be inconvenient, but there will be less evidence against you if you decline to engage in the test.
Politely Decline to Take the Preliminary Alcohol Screener
A preliminary alcohol screener, or “hand-held breathalyzer,” is also voluntary. In Ohio, you will immediately have your driver’s license revoked if you refuse to blow into the screener; however, most people are entitled to work and school driving privileges. Further, like the field sobriety test, refusing to blow builds less of a case against you.
Say as Little as Possible
Never admit to having had a drink. Do not answer questions from the officer about where you are coming from or when you last ate. Do not lie either. Simply say, “I have been advised not to answer your questions.”
Assume You Are Being Recorded at All Times
Most police cars are now equipped with video camera and voice recorders. Anything you say can be used against you during your OVI case.
If You Are Arrested, Stay Calm
Continue to be as polite and quiet as possible. The only thing to ask for is your attorney. However, if you are arrested, Ohio’s implied consent laws will require you submit to a blood, breath or urine test at the police station.
Call a DUI Attorney
You deserve an experienced DUI attorney that can explain your rights and help you build a defense. If you are charged with a DUI in the Dayton Ohio area, contact us today so together we can work quickly towards a resolution in your case. The attorneys at Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers are prepared to work aggressively on your behalf throughout each step of your case.
To learn more, call our Dayton criminal defense law firm at (937) 531-0435 or visit our contact us page to send us an email.
