By Pierce Blitch
Understanding Your Rights During a DUI Stop
If you’ve ever been pulled over for suspected drunk driving in Georgia, you might have asked yourself, “What are my rights?” Many drivers mistakenly believe they must comply with every request from law enforcement. This isn’t true. In fact, you are not required to take a field sobriety test if an officer suspects you of driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or drugs. This includes, but is not limited to, tests like the horizontal gaze nystagmus, the one-leg stand, and the walk-and-turn.
The Purpose of Field Sobriety Tests
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) developed these tests to help officers determine if a driver’s abilities are impaired by alcohol or drugs. While failing these tests might indicate intoxication, many other factors can affect performance, such as fatigue, nervousness, and lack of coordination. Thus, failing a field sobriety test doesn’t guarantee a DUI conviction. With the assistance of a Augusta DUI lawyer, you can challenge the validity of this evidence.
The Difference Between Field Sobriety Tests and Chemical Tests
While you’re not legally obligated to take a field sobriety test, the rules differ for chemical tests, like breath, blood, or urine tests. Under Georgia’s implied consent law, refusing a chemical test has consequences such as license suspension
If you’re facing DUI charges, it’s crucial to understand your rights and the steps you can take to protect yourself. Refusing a field sobriety test won’t automatically lead to a conviction, but refusing a chemical test has significant consequences. If you need help navigating a DUI charge, contact a Augusta DUI attorney as soon as possible.
CALL THE Blitch Law Firm ATTORNEYS AT LAW TODAY TO DISCUSS YOUR CASE
We fight for you, and we don’t back down. Every criminal charge holds potentially life-altering consequences. We don’t hold back on providing our clients the best possible criminal defense available. Nearly all the attorneys at The Blitch Law Firm are former Assistant District Attorneys, so our unique insight on how the prosecution approaches cases equips us with the ability to see the case from all sides. If you, a family member, or a close friend faces criminal charges, contact The Blitch Law Firm today at 706-434-8770 or visit us at 7004 Evans Town Center Blvd., Third Floor, Evans, Georgia 30809 to discuss your unique case and our creative defense strategies with one of our experienced criminal defense attorneys.
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