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You knew it was a mistake to get behind the wheel of the car, but you did it anyway. You just got engaged, got a promotion at work, got something that deserved celebrating. So you headed out with your friends, had too much to drink, and then made the mistake of climbing behind the wheel. After all, you didn't want to call a cab and leave your car stuck in the middle of nowhere all night. Now you find yourself on the side of the road, with those flashing lights behind you. What do you do?

First of all, do not insult the officer's intelligence. If you're still holding a bottle of beer in your hand, now is not the time to throw it out the window, or hide it behind your seat. You can't grab a breath mint, and hope that it covers the smell of alcohol either. Alcohol seeps into your every pore, and the officer will know it when they see you.

As soon as the officer approaches your car, you should be courteous and respectful, and above all else, apologetic. Acting rude, or accusing the officer of hiding in wait to lay a trap will get you nowhere, even if it is true. There are some areas where police officers will hide in places near certain bars and clubs, to catch drunk drivers before they cause an accident, or kill someone. Even if the officer did that, do not be belligerent.

This is not the time to make threats, or shout your name over and over again. Even if you are Nicole Richie or Paris Hilton, the officer doesn't care. You may be the mayor's son, but if you drive drunk, you have to pay the cost.

You have to face the facts of the situation. You broke the law, and you were busted for it. All you can do is be polite, and do what the officer asks. If you are more willing to cooperate, the court may go lenient on you later.

No one should ever get behind the wheel of a car after they have been drinking, but if you do you should follow these steps. The only thing you can do is to be respectful and polite, and hope that the officer and the court notice this later.

Learn more about this author, Jennifer Eblin.
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