Pulled Over in Sanford: What to Say (and Not Say) During a DUI Stop

Being pulled over by the police is intimidating for anyone. However, if an officer in Sanford suspects you of DUI, things can take a turn for the worse very quickly. Make no mistake: The words you use, or don’t use, can be a game-changer in how things turn out for you.

In this post, we lay out what to expect at a DUI traffic stop, how to conduct yourself during the stop, and why your words can make all the difference to the potential outcome.

Why Your Words Matter in a DUI Stop

Officers are trained to be highly observant during traffic stops. The words you use, from the very first to the very last, can be used as evidence against you in court later. For that reason, having a clear idea of what to say and what not to say is one of the most powerful weapons in your defense arsenal.

What You Should Say

You only need to say a handful of words during a DUI stop in Sanford. Consider the following:

• Good Morning/Afternoon/Evening, Officer – Respect and politeness cannot be overstated when you are dealing with law enforcement officers.
• Provide Your Driver’s License/Registration/Insurance – When asked, you should provide your license, registration, and insurance information. No need to make small talk during this time.
• Give Straightforward, Concise Answers – If the officer asks where you are going, it is okay to answer with something basic, such as, “I’m going home.” Your response should be short and neutral.
• Ask for a Lawyer – If the officer starts asking more pointed questions, then it’s appropriate to state, “I would like to speak with a lawyer before answering any further questions.”

You should absolutely refrain from doing or saying any of the following:

• “I only had a couple of beers.” – The officer needs no further evidence of your intoxication. Keep your mouth shut.
• “I’m fine to drive.” – You are not the judge of your fitness to drive. Leave it to the officer to decide.
• “I was at a party/bar.” – This is a self-incriminating admission that you were where alcohol is served.
• Humor/jokes/sarcasm – No one is laughing if you try to defuse the situation by joking or being sarcastic.
• Anger/hostility – Raise your voice or get mouthy with the officer at your own peril.

The best thing you can do for yourself is to invoke your right to remain silent.

Field Sobriety Tests

After their initial questioning, the officer may ask you to perform a set of field sobriety tests (FSTs), which may include walking a straight line, standing on one foot, or following a penlight with your eyes. Keep in mind that in Florida, you are not legally required to submit to such roadside tests.

FSTs are highly subjective, and even sober people fail these tests for a variety of legitimate reasons, such as nervousness, medical conditions, or poor balance. It is therefore often advisable to politely decline to submit to these roadside tests. Simply say: “I respectfully decline to perform any roadside tests.”

Breath Tests in Florida

Florida’s implied consent law states that by driving on Florida roads, drivers automatically agree to take a breath, urine, or blood test if an officer lawfully arrests them for DUI.

The key consideration here is whether the officer has lawfully arrested you. Prior to an arrest, you are not legally required to blow into a handheld portable breath testing device during a traffic stop. On the other hand, once you have been arrested, refusal to submit to the breath test at the police station can result in automatic suspension of your driver’s license and can be presented against you as evidence in court.

However, a skilled DUI attorney can often successfully challenge how the breath test was administered or whether the arrest and stop were lawful in the first place.

What to Expect After the Arrest

If you are arrested for DUI in Sanford, you should be prepared for the following:

• Booking – You will be taken to the local jail, where you will be fingerprinted and photographed.
• Jail – You will be held in jail until you sober up or until someone posts bail.
• Court – You will be given a notice of your court dates. Your words, field sobriety test results, and the arresting officer’s reports will all be used against you by the prosecutor.
• Driver’s License – Your driver’s license will be automatically suspended, depending on the circumstances.

Working with an experienced DUI lawyer is crucial to protect your rights and mitigate penalties at this stage.

How a Skilled Sanford DUI Lawyer Can Help

An experienced DUI defense attorney in Sanford can:

• Question the legality of the traffic stop
• Question the field sobriety test results
• Negotiate a reduction in charges or sentencing
• Represent you in court and fight for your rights
• Protect your driver’s license

Without an experienced lawyer, you are more likely to receive harsher punishments, which could include jail time, fines, and a criminal record that can affect your life for years to come.

Don’t Go It Alone—Get the Help You Need From a DUI Lawyer Today

Being pulled over by the police can be a scary experience. If an officer suspects you of DUI in Sanford, things can quickly become a frightful experience. The things you say, or don’t say, can make all the difference in how it turns out for you. Remember, though, that you have rights, and the police are there to serve and protect the public, which means they are not there to make your life miserable either. By remaining calm, avoiding incrimination, and only stating what is necessary, you increase your chances of a fair outcome.

If you or someone you know has been arrested for DUI in Sanford, do not hesitate to contact us. The right lawyer can be the difference between simply dealing with a one-time mistake and lifelong consequences.