Pulled Over For DWI In New Jersey: What Do I Do?

Steps to Take When Pulled Over for a DUI in NJ

When you see those red and blue flashing lights in your rearview mirror, it is only natural to feel a little nervous. But in these circumstances, it’s important to not panic to keep yourself and those around you as safe as possible. Here is a guide to navigating DWI stops in New Jersey.

Pull Over Safely

When you see a cop behind you with his lights on, your first move should be to safely get off the road so that they can perform their duties without putting you, themselves, or any other drivers and passengers at risk. If you are on a highway or a busy road, this may take a moment due to the chaos around you. Don’t panic. Put on your emergency lights and make your way to the side of the road either to find a safe place to stop, or a safe place to exit.

Stay Put, And Don’t Make Any Sudden Movements

Although traffic stops are a normal part of any officer’s duties, the risk still exists that someone could react violently to being pulled over. Wait for the officer to approach your vehicle, and stay seated in your car. Answer any questions to the best of your ability, and provide your license and registration when they ask for it.

Follow Directions, Be Polite, And Watch Your Words

In the chaos of the moment, officers are trained to ask the right questions to get incriminating information out of drivers. You do not have to give up any incriminating information, just your name, license, and registration. If you are asked how many drinks you have had, you do NOT have to answer. But do not lie. Lying can cause much more of a legal headache down the road. The officer may ask you to perform a field sobriety test, which you can refuse. You can also refuse a handheld breathalyzer, but then you will HAVE to submit to one at a local police station.

The Blood Alcohol Chemical Tests

If the officer finds probable cause that you were drinking and driving, they will arrest you and take you to the nearest station for a blood alcohol test. All New Jersey state police use the same breathalyzer machine to test blood alcohol content. They can also take a blood or urine sample if they need to, but most stations will have a working breathalyzer machine ready to go.

Contact An Attorney

Because a DWI/DUI conviction can carry such a serious range of punishments, you should ask to call a criminal law attorney to talk about your situation. If you have been arrested, the police MUST allow you access to one if they are at all planning to question you. Regardless, it is a smart idea to contact an attorney as soon as possible.

Contact sn Experienced Criminal Defense Lawyer About Your Charges in New Jersey Today!

Were you arrested or charged with a DWI in NJ? The consequences of a conviction could be severe, leaving you with a permanent criminal record and possibly even sending you to jail. That is why you need to speak with a qualified criminal defense attorney as soon as possible about your case. Attorney Michelle Finizio has successfully represented clients charged with DWI throughout South Jersey. Call 856-888-9059 or fill out the online contact form to schedule a consultation with a member of our legal team. We have an office conveniently located at 9 E. Main St, Moorestown, NJ 08057.

The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.