Police set up DUI checkpoints to catch drunk drivers by briefly stopping vehicles to check if the driver has been drinking. In Asheville, checkpoints are common on weekends and holidays when drunk driving is more likely. If you find yourself arrested at a DUI checkpoint, make sure you reach out to an Asheville DUI defense attorney right away.
What to Expect During a DUI Checkpoint Stop
As you approach the checkpoint, you’ll see police officers directing traffic into a single lane. Remain calm and follow their instructions. Once it’s your turn, pull up slowly to the officer signaling you. Roll down your window and have your license, registration, and proof of insurance ready.
Cooperating Respectfully With Police Officers
When going through a DUI checkpoint, it’s important to remain polite and cooperative with police officers. Getting confrontational or argumentative will only make the situation worse and could lead to legal trouble.
- Stay calm and composed. Take a few deep breaths to keep your nerves in check. Getting visibly nervous may raise suspicion, even if you have nothing to hide.
- Turn on your interior lights. As you approach the checkpoint, turn on your interior lights so the officers can clearly see inside your vehicle. Roll down your window as you stop, and keep your hands on the steering wheel so they remain visible.
- Make eye contact and greet the officers. Say something like, “Good evening, officers.” Maintaining eye contact and a friendly demeanor will make you appear more credible
- Follow instructions carefully. Listen closely to the officers’ instructions and follow them politely. They may ask you basic questions about where you’re coming from and your destination. Answer truthfully, but keep your responses brief and lighthearted.
- Do not consent to a search. You have the right to refuse a search of your vehicle. Politely say something like, “I do not consent to a search.” However, do not physically resist if the officers insist on searching your vehicle.
- Ask if you’re free to leave. Once the officers have spoken with you and possibly searched your vehicle, ask if you are free to leave. Do so in a casual, friendly manner, such as “Am I free to get going now, officers?” Do not simply drive away without asking; this could be seen as evading the checkpoint.
Knowing Your Rights and When to Invoke Them
One of your most important rights at a DUI checkpoint is the right to remain silent. You are not required to answer any questions from officers beyond basic questions about your identity, vehicle registration, and proof of insurance.
Politely inform the officer that you do not consent to answering further questions. However, refusing to provide your license, registration, or proof of insurance can result in additional charges. Field sobriety tests like walking a straight line or standing on one leg are subjective and designed to provide probable cause for an arrest. You have the right to refuse these tests.
Arrested at a Checkpoint? Contact an Asheville DUI Attorney Immediately
If you’ve been stopped at a DUI checkpoint in Asheville and arrested for driving under the influence, don’t panic. Remain calm and call an experienced Asheville DUI attorney as soon as possible. Asheville DUI Guy has successfully defended hundreds of DUI cases and can walk you through the necessary steps to protect your rights.
Asheville DUI Guy is here to support you each step of the way. We believe everyone deserves compassion and a fair chance in court. Call today for your free consultation at 828-759-5556.
