ALBUQUERQUE TRIAL BLOG
How to Avoid Getting Pulled Over After Drinking in New Mexico?
Law enforcement officers cannot pull you over without a valid reason, or else any evidence they gather could be inadmissible in court. This means that unless you violate traffic laws or draw attention to yourself, police officers cannot legally stop you while driving.
If you choose to drive after drinking, you should be extra cautious to avoid behavior that may attract the attention of law enforcement. In New Mexico, DUI laws are stringent, and even a small amount of alcohol in your system during a traffic stop could result in charges.
To avoid the risk of a DUI, it’s essential to be aware of common behaviors that attract police officers’ attention. By avoiding these actions, you can reduce the chances of a traffic stop and potential DUI charges. It’s always better to err on the side of caution and plan a safe ride home if you’ve been drinking.
1. Struggling to Walk to Your Car
Law enforcement officers are authorized to pull over drivers if they observe signs of intoxication, to safeguard the safety of others on the road. The officer can begin an investigation and ask questions even before the driver has shifted the car into park.
2. Driving Less Than the Posted Speed Limit
Although driving cautiously is always recommended, driving too slowly can attract unwanted attention from law enforcement. If you drive below the speed limit, it may be interpreted as a sign of impairment or intoxication, which can result in a traffic stop and potentially lead to a DUI charge.
To avoid being pulled over and charged with a DUI, it’s essential to be mindful of your driving behavior and adhere to all traffic laws. If you’ve been drinking, it’s best to arrange for a designated driver or alternate transportation to ensure your safety and that of others on the road.
In the event that you are pulled over and charged with a DUI, seeking legal representation is crucial. A knowledgeable DUI attorney can help you navigate the legal process and work towards minimizing the charges or penalties you may face.
3. Speeding
Speeding is a common reason for law enforcement to pull over drivers, and it can result in questions about the driver’s sobriety. To avoid any unnecessary traffic stops or suspicion, it’s essential to avoid speeding and abide by the posted speed limits.
4. Stopping at a Green Light or Lingering at a Stop Sign
Improving focus and attentiveness while driving is not only important for safety, but it can also prevent suspicion from law enforcement. If you exhibit signs of distraction, such as lingering too long at a stop sign or delaying at a green light, it may raise red flags for authorities. By staying alert and responsive on the road, you can avoid drawing unwanted attention and ensure a smoother driving experience.
5. Getting Involved in a Fight
Getting into a fight doesn’t always mean someone is under the influence or has an illegal blood alcohol level. Nonetheless, if police officers respond to an assault and catch you getting into your car, they may test your blood alcohol content. If you’re found to be guilty of both assault and DUI, you could face severe consequences, including extended jail time and license suspension. So, it’s crucial to be cautious and responsible, even if you’re not planning to drink and drive, to avoid such severe legal troubles.
6. Screeching Your Tires or Taking Off Too Fast
If you’re driving under the influence of alcohol, you may exhibit erratic behavior, such as sudden stops and starts, and screeching tires. These signs are usually noticeable to law enforcement officials, and they might suspect that you’re driving while intoxicated. If you’re caught driving drunk, you could face severe legal consequences, including license suspension, heavy fines, and even imprisonment. So, it’s crucial to always drive responsibly and avoid drinking and driving to ensure your safety and that of others on the road.
7. Colliding with a Non-moving Object
Colliding with a stationary object while driving is a rare occurrence. So, when it happens, and the driver moves on without noticing or reporting the damage to the property owner, it raises suspicion. Failing to report property damage can lead to a traffic stop, and law enforcement officials may suspect that the driver was intoxicated while driving. Trying to avoid a DUI charge by not reporting the damage is not a wise decision. Instead, it’s better to stop and talk to the property owner and report the incident to the police if necessary. This way, you can avoid facing severe legal consequences, such as license suspension, heavy fines, and even imprisonment.
To avoid facing a DUI charge in New Mexico, the best option is to avoid getting behind the wheel after drinking. However, due to the state’s strict DUI laws, even one beer could lead to a DUI charge. Therefore, it’s crucial to drive with caution and care to avoid attracting the attention of law enforcement officials.
If you do end up getting charged with a DUI, it’s essential to know your rights. You have the right to remain silent and seek legal representation immediately. It’s recommended to contact a DUI lawyer who can provide you with legal advice and help you navigate the complex legal process. With the right legal support, you may be able to mitigate the consequences of a DUI charge, such as license suspension, fines, and possible imprisonment.