If you get arrested for drinking and driving, you may worry about how a potential conviction could affect your finances, reputation and employment prospects now and in the future. You may also have concerns about the penalties you could face following a conviction.
According to the Missouri Department of Revenue, some of the penalties for DWI include license suspension and denial and even having points added to your license. To protect your interests during and after a DWI arrest, avoid doing the following.
Waiting to provide identification
As soon as a law enforcement official pulls you over for DWI, roll down your window and gather your driver’s license, vehicle registration and proof of insurance. Prepare to hand this information over to the law enforcement official when he or she arrives at your car.
Providing too much information
If the arresting official asks you a question, answer with a simple “yes” or “no.” Refrain from providing lengthy and long-winded answers to any questions the law enforcement official asks.
Trying to flee the scene of arrest
When a law enforcement official flashes his or her vehicle’s lights and pulls you over, do not try to speed up and get away. When you park your vehicle, do not try to escape on foot. Trying to leave the scene of the arrest could aggravate the charges against you.
When arrested for DWI, cooperate with what the law enforcement official asks you to do. Wait until future court proceedings to present your case and defend yourself against the charges brought against you for drinking and driving.
