Should I Do Roadside Exercises or Provide a Breath Sample if I Get Pulled Over for DUI?

December 28, 2023

Should I Do Roadside Exercises or Provide a Breath Sample if I Get Pulled Over for DUI?

Driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious offense in Chicago. If you're ever pulled over for DUI, you might be asked to do roadside exercises or provide a breath sample. This can be a nerve-wracking experience, and you might be wondering what to do. In this blog post, we'll explore what roadside exercises and breath samples are, and whether or not you should do them. We'll also talk about how an attorney can help you if you're facing DUI charges in Chicago.


Roadside exercises, also known as field sobriety tests, are a series of physical exercises that police officers use to determine whether or not you're intoxicated. These exercises include things like standing on one leg, walking in a straight line, and touching your nose with your finger. While these exercises might seem simple enough, they can be difficult to perform even if you're sober. If you're nervous or anxious, you might perform poorly on these tests, which could lead to your arrest.


Breath samples, on the other hand, are tests that measure the amount of alcohol in your breath. Police officers use a small device called a breathalyzer to administer these tests. The device works by measuring the concentration of alcohol in your breath sample and estimating your blood alcohol content (BAC) based on that measurement. In Illinois, if your BAC is .08 or higher, you are considered legally intoxicated.


Now, you might be wondering whether or not you should do roadside exercises or provide a breath sample if you're pulled over for DUI. The short answer is that you don't have to do either of them. You have the right to refuse these tests, but that doesn't mean you won't be arrested. Refusing a breathalyzer test, for example, can result in the suspension of your driver's license for up to a year. However, if you do choose to do these tests, it's important to remember that they're not foolproof. You have the right to challenge the results of these tests, and an experienced DUI attorney can help you do that.


How can an attorney help you if you're facing DUI charges in Chicago?



A DUI attorney can review your case and help you understand your legal options. They can also help you navigate the complex court system and develop a defense strategy that works for you. For example, an attorney might argue that the results of your breathalyzer test were inaccurate or that the police officer didn't follow the correct procedures during your arrest. With the help of an attorney, you might be able to have your charges reduced or even dismissed.


If you're ever pulled over for DUI in Chicago, remember that you have the right to refuse roadside exercises and breathalyzer tests. However, refusing these tests can have its consequences, so it's important to understand your legal options. An experienced DUI attorney can help you understand your rights and develop a defense strategy that works for you. With the right legal representation, you might be able to avoid harsh penalties and protect your driving privileges.


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