1. Stay calm: The first thing to remember is to stay calm and keep your emotions in check. Getting agitated or argumentative with the officer will only make the situation worse. 2. Follow instructions: When the police officer signals for you to pull over, find a safe spot to do so and pull over as soon as possible. Turn off the car and keep your hands on the wheel where the officer can see them. 3. Be polite and respectful: When the officer approaches your car, be polite and respectful. Do not admit to anything and do not argue. It is important to remain cooperative and respectful during the entire encounter. 4. Know your rights: You have the right to remain silent and the right to speak to an attorney before answering any questions. You may politely inform the officer that you would like to speak with an attorney before answering any questions. 5. Cooperate with the sobriety tests: The officer may ask you to perform some sobriety tests, such as walking in a straight line or standing on one foot. You have the right to refuse these tests, but refusal may result in your arrest. If you decide to perform the tests, do so to the best of your ability and make sure you advise the police about any medcial conditions that may impede your ability to perform the exercises. 6. Cooperate with the breathalyzer test: The officer may also request that you take a breathalyzer test, it is generally advisable to refuse the breath test to increase your chances of defending the case. In most states, refusing to take this test will result in an automatic suspension of your driver’s license and in some states, like Massachusetts, the refusal cannot be used against you in court. If you decide to take the test, remember to refrain from touching your mouth/burping/belching or introducing anything into your mouth as it may affect the breath test reading.
