From a police perspective, there’s a lot that goes into setting up and managing a DUI checkpoint. However, once everything is in place, they only have one thing on their mind: finding people who are driving under the influence of alcohol.
The best way to avoid trouble at a DUI checkpoint is to avoid them altogether. But this is easier said than done, as you don’t know what lies up the road ahead.
So, your next best option is to never drink and drive. But once again, you could make a mistake that puts you in a compromising position.
With all that in mind, there are steps you can take at a Florida DUI checkpoint to protect yourself and your legal rights:
- Don’t drive erratically: As you approach a DUI checkpoint, stay in your lane and begin to slow down. Don’t give the officers any reason to believe that you’re under the influence of alcohol.
- Take direction from the officer: An officer will call on your vehicle, telling you where to go and where to stop. Pay close attention to them, follow direction and then wait for them to approach your window.
- Don’t say too much: The officer may ask where you’re going. They may also ask if you’ve been drinking alcohol. And they’re likely to request your license, registration and proof of insurance. No matter what they say or ask, stick to basic answers. The more you talk, the greater chance there is that you’ll say something suspicious.
- Don’t resist arrest: You tried everything possible to prevent trouble, but you still find yourself under arrest. This isn’t ideal, but it’s no time to fight back. Follow directions and maintain your silence.
These are just a few of the many things you can do at a Florida DUI checkpoint to avoid trouble and/or protect yourself should you be put under arrest.
Once you’re booked at a local station, you can then turn your immediate attention to the stop itself, the arrest process and your charges. All of this will lead you toward a DUI defense strategy designed to help you avoid a conviction.
