As the Fourth of July approaches, it’s time to celebrate our freedom and enjoy the festivities. However, it’s important to remember that drinking and driving can quickly turn a joyous occasion into a legal nightmare.
At Russo, Pelletier & Sullivan P.A., the leading DUI defense law firm in Clearwater, we are committed to helping you stay safe and avoid the serious consequences of a DUI arrest. Here are our tips to ensure a DUI-free Fourth of July.
The most effective way to avoid a DUI is simple: don’t drink and drive. Instead, opt for alternative transportation methods such as designated drivers, ride-sharing services, or public transportation. By making responsible choices and planning, you can safeguard your freedom and protect yourself and others on the road.
Here are a few specific locations in Pinellas County where law enforcement tends to patrol more heavily during the Fourth of July holiday weekend:
In the unfortunate event that you are stopped by law enforcement for a suspected DUI, it’s crucial to know how to handle the situation appropriately. Remember the following best practices:
Stay Calm and Respectful
Remain composed and cooperative during the interaction with law enforcement officers. Avoid arguing or exhibiting aggressive behavior, as it may escalate the situation.
Invoke Your Rights
You have the right to remain silent and the right to legal representation from a leading DUI defense law firm in Clearwater, like Russo, Pelletier & Sullivan. Politely exercise these rights by respectfully declining to answer any potentially self-incriminating questions until you have a lawyer present to advise you.
Refrain From Performing Field Sobriety Tests
Field sobriety tests are voluntary, and you have the right to refuse them. These tests can be subjective and potentially used against you in court. You should know that these tests are very hard to perform, even if you have not been drinking. When you add in the stress of a potential arrest, your chances of performing in a way that the officer finds satisfactory are low. If you refuse the tests, you will likely be arrested. However, you will also be depriving the State Attorney of this important, pivotal evidence.
Know Your Rights with Respect to the Breath Test
If you are arrested for a DUI, law enforcement is going to try and convince you to provide a breath sample. Law enforcement will go to great lengths to tell you the consequences of refusing a breath test. What they often will not tell you are the consequences of providing a breath test. Here are a few things you should keep in mind:
If you or a loved one is facing DUI charges this Fourth of July, seek professional legal guidance from a top Clearwater DWI lawyer with Russo, Pelletier & Sullivan to help you reduce or eliminate your DUI charge.
At Russo, Pelletier & Sullivan, P.A., our team of top DUI lawyers in Clearwater is ready to protect your rights and fight for the best possible outcome. Celebrating freedom should never come at the expense of your future. Don’t hesitate to request a free DUI consultation or call us at (727) 291-9717.sd
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.
Defense services for DUI and DWI offenses
24 Hours a Day, 7 Days a Week
Baypoint Commerce Center
The Koger Building
9721 Executive Center Dr N,
Suite 120
St. Petersburg, FL 33702
Wilder Center
3000 Gulf to Bay Blvd.
Suite 100
Clearwater, FL 33765
©2021 Russo, Pelletier & Sullivan, P.A. All Rights Reserved. The hiring of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based solely upon advertisements. Before you decide, ask us to send you free written information about our qualifications and experience. This web site provides general information only since the facts and circumstances of your case are unique. The information presented on this website is not to be interpreted as formal legal advice nor does it constitute the formation of an attorney/client relationship.
