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Are you a victim of an illegal DUI traffic stop?

On Behalf of | Mar 7, 2018 | Blog

If you are facing charges for drunk driving, you know there is a lot at stake. From your personal freedom to your right to drive, there are many consequences that could impact your life and your future. You know it is important to build a strong defense, and the first step of your defense process is to explore the validity of the original traffic stop.

Law enforcement officers must have clear and valid reasons to stop a person for suspected drunk driving. If there was no reason to pull you over or you experienced a violation of your personal rights in any way, you have grounds to seek a dismissal of the charges against you. Individuals facing DUI charges in Florida have the right to fight back against invalid or illegal traffic stops.

When can law enforcement pull you over?

Law enforcement can only pull you over in certain circumstances. There must be clear reason to suspect drunk driving or intoxication, and they cannot pull people over for discriminatory reasons. Some of the legal reasons for a DUI traffic stop include the following: 

  • Drivers who are swerving in their lanes or straddling the center line
  • Vehicles moving at erratic speeds
  • Making an illegal turn
  • Braking frequently or for no apparent reason
  • Almost hitting or hitting other vehicles
  • Stopping for no apparent reason in the road
  • Driving at extremely slow speeds

Reasonable suspicion is the only reason why a law enforcement officer can initiate a traffic stop with a suspected drunk driver. However, if you were pulled over for another valid reason, such as speeding or a missing headlight, and the officer smells alcohol or notices erratic behavior, he or she could ask you to submit to sobriety tests.

You may be unsure of whether you are a victim of an invalid or illegal traffic stop. It may be helpful to seek an evaluation of your case in order to understand your options for your defense. 

The defense that is right for you

You know that it is important to defend yourself against drunk driving charges, but you may be unsure of where to begin. You have the right to explore your options, and seeking knowledgeable legal guidance from the earliest stages of your case could help.

If you believe you are the victim of illegal police procedures and now you are facing ungrounded DUI charges, you have no time to lose in working to protect your interests.

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