What to Do If You’re Pulled Over After Drinking: A Drunk Driving Legal Safety Guide
By Zach Myers, Owner & Partner at Northwest Law, Spokane, WA
Getting pulled over is stressful in any situation, but if you’ve had a drink or two, the anxiety can skyrocket. At Northwest Law, we represent clients facing DUI charges every day, and the actions you take in those first few minutes during a traffic stop can significantly affect both your safety and your legal outcome.
Here’s exactly what to do if you see red and blue lights in your rearview mirror after drinking:
🚨 1. Pull Over Safely and Calmly
Signal immediately and pull over to the right side of the road in a safe location. Use your blinker, slow down gradually, and park your vehicle completely off the roadway if possible. Stay in your car unless instructed otherwise.
🤚 2. Stay Still, Hands Visible
Roll down your window, place both hands on the steering wheel, and remain still. Avoid reaching for your wallet, registration, or anything else until the officer asks. Sudden movements can raise suspicion or even escalate a situation unnecessarily.
🧘♂️ 3. Stay Calm and Be Polite
Keep your demeanor respectful and non-confrontational. Do not argue or volunteer information. How you interact can affect the officer’s report, and being combative or evasive may work against you later.
🧾 4. Know What You Must Provide
You are legally required to provide:
- Your driver’s license
- Proof of insurance
- Vehicle registration
Do not offer any additional information. If asked, “Have you been drinking?” you may politely decline to answer:
“I’d like to speak with an attorney before answering any questions.”
This is your constitutional right, and exercising it respectfully is not an admission of guilt.
🚫 5. You Are Not Required to Perform Field Sobriety Tests
Field sobriety tests are voluntary, and often designed in ways that are difficult to pass even when sober. You can (and often should) decline. A polite way to do this is:
“I respectfully decline to perform any field sobriety tests.”
🧪 6. Understand Chemical Testing Requirements
Washington’s Implied Consent Law means that by driving, you’ve agreed to take a chemical test (breath or blood) after arrest. Refusing this test can result in a license suspension and may be used against you in court.
However, you are not required to take a portable breath test (PBT) at the roadside. You can decline it:
“I respectfully decline any roadside breath testing.”
If you are arrested, you will be asked to take a breath or blood test at the station or hospital. At that point, refusal carries automatic penalties.
📞 7. Ask to Speak with an Attorney
You have the right to consult an attorney before submitting to post-arrest testing. Clearly state:
“I would like to speak with an attorney as soon as possible.”
If you are unable to contact an attorney, the officer must allow you a reasonable attempt to do so. This is a critical moment—don’t waive this right.
📷 8. Record If You Can
If you have a passenger or hands-free recording capability, documenting the interaction may help your defense. Do not interfere with the officer’s work or make any sudden moves with your phone.
📚 9. After the Stop: Write Everything Down
As soon as you’re able, record everything you remember:
- What time and where you were stopped
- What the officer said and did
- Whether tests were offered or refused
- What you ate and drank, and when
- Who you were with
These notes can be invaluable to your attorney when building your defense.
🛑 Struggling with Alcohol or Drug Use? Help Is Here in Spokane
If you’re concerned that your drinking or drug use is becoming unmanageable—or if you’ve already faced legal consequences like a DUI—know that you’re not alone, and support is available right here in Spokane.
Whether you need detox, residential treatment, outpatient support, or mental health services, the following organizations can help you take the first step toward recovery:
Spokane Falls Recovery Center
A comprehensive treatment facility offering medical detox, residential care, outpatient programs, and therapy for alcohol and drug addiction.
-
📍 101 E. Magnesium Rd., Suite #101, Spokane, WA 99208
-
📞 Admissions: 844-962-2775
Spokane Treatment and Recovery Services (STARS)
A nonprofit behavioral health agency providing substance use disorder and mental health services, including outpatient care and individualized treatment plans.
-
📍 Spokane, WA
-
📞 (509) 570-7250
Royal Life Centers at Spokane Heights
Offers detox and residential inpatient services for individuals seeking help for substance abuse and mental health issues.
-
📍 Spokane, WA
-
📞 888-694-1689
Washington Recovery Help Line
A 24-hour statewide service offering emotional support and referrals to treatment and recovery services.
-
📞 1-866-789-1511
Taking the first step toward recovery is a sign of strength. If you or someone you care about is ready to seek help, reach out to one of these resources today.
Final Thoughts
At Northwest Law, we know how overwhelming it can be to face DUI charges. Your actions during a stop can dramatically impact your case. Stay respectful, don’t volunteer information, and assert your rights calmly and confidently.
If you or someone you know has been arrested for DUI in Spokane or the surrounding areas, call us immediately. We’re here to help you through every step of the legal process.
Zach Myers
Owner & Partner
Northwest Law | Spokane, WA
📞 (509) 362-1292 | 🌐 https://northwest-law.com/
#DUIAwareness #KnowYourRights #LegalAdvice #DUIStop #ProtectYourRights #LegalTips #FieldSobrietyTest #DUIDefense #TrafficStopTips #ArrestAdvice #SpokaneLawyer #NorthwestLaw #SpokaneLegalHelp #SpokaneDUI #WashingtonLaw #ZachMyersLaw #SpokaneAttorney #WashingtonDUI
