What to Do if Stopped for DWI

What to Do if Stopped for DWI

Missouri law requires you to produce your driver’s license and proof of insurance upon being stopped. It is recommended that you have these items available and ready to produce to the officer before he or she reaches your vehicle. A police officer may also request that you exit your vehicle. When the officer makes this request, he or she will be observing clues of intoxication, such as your balance, walking ability, and your ability to follow his or her instructions.

All others questions or requests by a police officer are designed to elicit incriminating evidence to be used against you in a DWI case. You should politely respond to any such requests in the following manner: “I want to speak with my lawyer before doing or saying anything.” If the officer insists with questions or commands, the above-mentioned language should be repeated to the officer. It is important to stand by your refusal to say or do anything. Many people who initially refuse to say or do anything eventually cave in to the officer’s request to perform field sobriety tests or answering questions that the officer continues to ask. If the officer asks to search your vehicle, DO NOT consent to a search.

Lastly, when asked to blow into the breath-test machine at the police station, once again ask to speak with an attorney. Once you are asked to submit to a chemical test at the station, you are entitled to a 20-minute period to speak with a lawyer.

At Henderson & Waterkotte, P.C., our St. Louis DWI attorneys are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and can provide you with advice as to whether or not to submit to a chemical test. It is vital that you contact us immediately following your arrest.