by G.E. Robbins

Created on: April 28, 2008   Last Updated: July 01, 2010

While I make it a rule never to drink and drive, there are still many out there who feel they can get behind the wheel after they have a few. I know a few people who have been pulled over and some passed the roadside test, while some have not. So if you happen to be a person who thinks they can drive while being intoxicated, here is what not to do when you get pulled over and. eventually. you will be pulled over. Remember what you do and don't do can and will affect you later when you need to defend yourself.

1. Don't lose your cool, stay calm and relaxed.
2. Don't get out of your vehicle.  Police officers put their lives at risk when they are pulling someone over and unless you want them to pull a gun out, stay behind the wheel until they tell you to get out.
3. Don't refuse to take a Breathalyzer.  This only confirms your guilt and you will have an added charge as it is an offense to refuse to take one.
4. Don't rummage around in your vehicle looking around in your glove compartment etc... keep your hands on the wheel as the officer approaches your vehicle.
5. Don't and I repeat don't be rude to the officer, this will only make things worse for you in the long run. Be polite and cooperate with anything he asks you to do.
6. As the officer is approaching your vehicle you may feel the urge to drive away, this is a big mistake.  You don't want to add fleeing the scene to your charges, not to mention you could get into an accident as the result of a high speed chase.
7. Don't lie to the officer when they ask you if you have been drinking. It will be obvious to them.
8. Don't offer them a bribe to let you go, this won't work and again you will add another charge to the list.

Remember, you make the choice whether or not to drive while you are under the influence. Cooperation is the best defense while being pulled over.

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