What to Do at a DUI Sobriety Checkpoint in Maryland
Sobriety checkpoints in Maryland make the road safer for all drivers, and police officers are setting up more as summer approaches. Drivers might feel stressed or anxious when entering a DUI checkpoint even if they are sober. Remember, these checkpoints are set up to catch drunk drivers. If you are not doing anything illegal, you should be fine. Continue reading to learn what you should do and how you should behave at a Maryland sobriety checkpoint.
If police officers arrested you for drunk driving at one of these checkpoints in Maryland, contact a DUI defense attorney. Police departments must follow strict rules and regulations at sobriety checks, and an attorney will investigate to ensure they followed all proper procedures. A Maryland defense lawyer will also protect and defend you in court against aggressive prosecution.
Have Documentation Ready for a DUI Checkpoint
When you pull up to a DUI checkpoint, do not turn around. Officers can only follow you if you make an illegal move, such as an unlawful U-turn, or fail to obey another traffic rule. However, they may decide to pull you over regardless and worry about the legality in court. Instead, get your documentation ready, including your driver’s license, insurance, and registration. That way, if an officer asks for it, they do not have the opportunity to claim you were fumbling for your information.
Have Patience at Sobriety Checkpoints
The purpose of a sobriety checkpoint is to keep yourself and others safe on Maryland roads, so you should be patient and understanding if you come across one. As long as you drive sober and do not behave suspiciously, you should pass through the checkpoint with no issues. In the meantime, be considerate to any officers you speak to. Remember, they are just doing their job.
Stay Calm If Police Pull You Over
You should not panic if a police officer asks you to pull over at a checkpoint. You must remain calm. Acting aggressively or speaking rudely to them will only make you seem guilty of drunk driving. Additionally, speak in clear and concise sentences to the officer. If, for any reason, they ask you to leave the vehicle, exit calmly and confidently. Do not lean on the car for support. Officers may take slurred speech or stumbling when exiting the vehicle as a sign of impairment.
Should You Take a Maryland Breathalyzer Test?
When you receive your Maryland driver’s license, you agree to take a preliminary breath test if police officers suspect you of drunk driving under the state’s implied consent law. While you can refuse to take a breath test, you should understand the pros and cons of taking a breathalyzer test.
One of the pros is that a cop may see you as cooperative. While that may not help you avoid charges, it may assist the situation. Additionally, not refusing to take a breath test will result in a shorter license suspension. If you refuse, the Maryland MVA will suspend your license and you may lose driving privileges for some time.
Speak to a Maryland DUI Defense Attorney
If the police arrested you at a sobriety checkpoint in Maryland, you must contact a DUI defense attorney. In Maryland, The Law Office of Hillel Traub is a top source for legal representation. Attorney Hillel Traub is a passionate advocate and fierce attorney who has proudly served Maryland residents for more than 20 years. As a former attorney for the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration, he has the skill, experience, and knowledge to handle your case. To schedule a free consultation, call (410) 580-1100 or complete our contact form.
