Drinking and driving is a serious charge that can have an equally serious impact on your life. You may want to talk your way out of the situation if you’re pulled over, but opening your mouth may lead to more trouble.
Colorado police arrest almost 60 people every day for driving under the influence. While many of those charged are over the legal limit, consequences can come into play before any chemical tests come back. Opening your mouth when the police pull you over could be a way to guarantee more trouble.
Silence is key
You have the right to remain silent when pulled over by the police, but sometimes it’s easier said than done. You’ll still want to comply with their requests, but it’s essential to remember what not to say:
- Admit to drinking: Fessing up to any amount of alcohol isn’t necessary. Colorado is an express consent state, which means that getting behind the wheel means you’re agreeing to a chemical test if an officer thinks you’re impaired. Admitting guilt before a test just strengthens the charges.
- Additional information: Trying to convince the officer you haven’t had that much will often have the opposite effect you intend. Alcohol affects everyone differently, and your weight, food intake and even gender can change how a couple drinks will have you acting. Arguing that you’ve only had two drinks could be more than enough to show impairment.
- Providing cues: Several of the signs of impairment an officer will be looking for are tied to speech. Most of the indicators occur when you drive, but trouble with your speech can seal the deal. The police are looking for drivers that are slow to respond, slur their words or change their answers during questioning.
The police can keep track of everything you say during a traffic stop. The state can use this information against you when they’re looking for a conviction. Your best bet is to limit the amount of information you hand over because you could be building a case against yourself.