The first thing you should keep in mind is that failure to stop for an officer will send you directly to prison. Do not run from the police. You will make things much worse for yourself, and you will not outrun them.
When the officer approaches the vehicle, make sure both of your hands are visible. The officer will ask for your paperwork and license. When you go to retrieve them, ask first and let the officer know where you are reaching. Always be as polite as possible.
The officer might also ask you if you know the reason they initiated the traffic stop. You should politely tell them you don’t know why you were stopped. They are looking to establish a reason for the stop and use that probable cause in court. Don’t remove that line of defense from your lawyer’s arsenal.
Keep in mind that you are on bodycam, so always be as respectful as possible. However, you have the right to refuse to take breathalyzer and field sobriety tests. You will lose your license for a year if you refuse to take a breathalyzer, but if convicted of DWI, you would lose the license anyway. Your lawyer can help you fight for a good outcome in either case.
If the officer who initiated the stop thinks they notice any slurred speech, alcohol on your breath, or bloodshot eyes, you might be detained for suspicion of DWI. Once arrested, police will ask you to submit to a breathalyzer or blood test. Refusal means suspension of your license.
Officers can (and will) get a warrant to draw blood and force you to submit to the test, but obtaining the warrant will take some time. Once they’ve gotten the warrant, it’s in your best interest to let them draw the blood. Otherwise, they will do it by force, and it will not be pleasant.
Never answer questions without a lawyer present, and ask to have a conversation with your lawyer as soon as possible.
