DUI Stops in Arizona

Seeing red, white, and blue lights in your rear-view mirror is never good news. This is especially true for those that are suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Arizona is one of the strictest states when it comes to driving under the influence (DUI) laws. Below is what to expect if you find yourself being stopped for a suspected DUI.

The Stop

There are a variety of ways that you might suddenly be experiencing a DUI stop. The first is that a police officer pulls you over for some type of traffic violation. Speeding, swerving, and failure to follow traffic signals are common reasons for a police officer to pull you over. A second way to get stopped is at the scene of an accident. After being involved in an accident, the police will come and investigate the scene. An officer can then determine if any driver is under the influence.

Field Sobriety Tests

After pulling you over for a suspected DWI, an officer may conduct field sobriety tests. These are tests that are used to determine if a driver is under the influence. These are physical tests to determine whether your movement and actions are like those of a person who is under the influence. You are not required to submit to a field sobriety test, but not participating can be detrimental to the future legal case and charge. Common field sobriety tests in Arizona are:

One-legged stand
Walk and turn
Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus

Breathalyzer Test

In addition to field sobriety tests, the police might conduct a breathalyzer test on you. This is a process in which you blow into a machine that determines your blood alcohol content (BAC). A BAC over .08 is evidence of driving over the legal limit.

The Arrest and Booking

After conducting various tests, if the officer believes you to be under the influence of alcohol, you will be arrested. When being arrested, the officer will read you your rights, including the right to speak with an attorney. This would be the time to call an experienced attorney when possible. At the police station, you will be photographed and fingerprinted. Do not forget that you have the right to talk with your attorney.

Blood Test

After the arrest, a blood test may be conducted to get official results to your BAC. You have the right to refuse a blood test, but the police will likely obtain a search warrant to be able to conduct a blood test. Additionally, refusing to take a blood test could result in the automatic suspension of your license for a year.If you have been stopped for a DUI in Arizona, you need an experienced DUI/DWI attorney to help you. The skilled DUI attorneys at Molina Law Group want you to know your rights and to have the best possible defense under the circumstances. Contact us today to get your best defense started.

The Stop

Field Sobriety Tests

Breathalyzer Test

The Arrest and Booking

Blood Test