The police use traffic stops to prevent criminal activity. During a traffic stop, drivers could be arrested for various crimes, such as drunk driving.
There are several things you should consider not doing during a traffic stop if you wish to avoid criminal charges. Here is what you should know:
1. Don’t forget your legal rights
You have several legal rights you can exercise during a traffic stop. These rights are granted to you through the Constitution. This includes:
- First Amendment: Your right to record the police as long as it does not interfere with police activity.
- Fourth Amendment: Your right to refuse the police from searching your vehicle. The police may search a car with permission, a warrant or reasonable suspicion or after a lawful arrest.
- Fifth Amendment: Your right to refuse to answer any questions. Anything you say could lead to self-incrimination and be used against you in a court of law.
You could protect yourself from serious criminal charges by understanding when and how to use your constitutional rights.
2. Don’t try to trick breath tests
Breath tests are used to evaluate a driver’s blood alcohol content (BAC). If the driver’s BAC exceeds the legal limit, they could be charged with drunk driving. Many people will try to trick breath tests by using mouthwash, gum or pennies. However, many of these tricks do not work and some can raise your BAC reading, which can lead to harsher charges.
3. Don’t try to avoid a traffic stop
If the police signal for you to pull over for a traffic stop, it is often in your best interests to listen to the police. Driving away from the police could be considered evasion. Evading, avoiding or fleeing from the police can lead to severe criminal charges.
The more you know about traffic stop laws, the better equipped you are to protect yourself from criminal charges. You can learn more about traffic stops by reaching out for legal help.