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The Signs an Officer is Looking for when they pull someone over for a Possible DUI

The Signs an Officer is Looking for when they pull someone over for a Possible DUI

When a law enforcement officer pulls a person over for a possible DUI (driving under the influence) they will be watching that person closely. Specifically, the officer will be observing that person’s behavior and physical actions to determine if that person is under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.

Here are some common signs a trained officer will look for when they first pull someone over for a possible DUI.

  • Difficulty rolling down the window or difficulty exiting the vehicle
  • A red colored or flushed face
  • Bloodshot, watery, red, or glossy eyes
  • Clothing soiled or out of sorts
  • An odor of alcohol comes from the car or from the person’s breath
  • Slurred speech
  • Has a difficult time finding a driver’s license or proof of insurance
  • Attempts to hide something in car while an officer approaches
  • Cannot answer questions in a timely manner
  • Has an inappropriate response to questions
  • Lack of knowledge of time or current whereabouts
  • Does not or cannot follow directions
  • Uses their vehicle for support while standing
  • Sways back and forth while standing
  • Cannot walk straight or keep balance when walking
  • Angry, aggressive or inappropriate attitude

possible DUI

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Typically, if a law enforcement officer observes some of these signs, they will continue to investigate that individual for DUI by asking them to take the DUI field sobriety tests. The field sobriety tests are voluntary tests, and the attorneys at David O Defense always advise NOT to take the field tests. The test are difficult and if a person decides to try the tests, they will fail. Even a sober athletic person would have some difficulty passing the tests.

An officer will also ask the individual to blow into a portable breath test to get a reading on their blood alcohol concentration (BAC). This is also a voluntary test. The DUI defense attorneys at David O Defense always advise NOT to take this test as well.

When under investigation for a possible DUI, a person should politely tell the officer that they want to contact their DUI attorney immediately. An experienced DUI attorney will be able to provide guidance through the situation.

If you don’t have a DUI attorney’s phone number programed in your phone, make sure you put David O Defense in your contacts, 206-459-6392. The attorneys at David O Defense are experienced DUI lawyers and are available if you ever need help!

Increased DUI and BUI Patrols for the 4th of July Weekend

Increased DUI and BUI Patrols for the 4th of July Weekend

The 4th of July is just days away and since it falls on a Monday this year, many will have a three-day weekend, hurray!  Talk about a fun holiday; backyard BBQ’s, parades, community gatherings, and of course fireworks.  It’s a great way to remember that back on July 4th, 1776 the Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence and declared the United States a new and free nation.

Independence Day typography card. Vector illustration

However, with all this 4th of July summer fun, comes increased drinking and driving, so expect to see a greater presence of law enforcement officers watching the roadways and waterways for DUI’s and BUI’s (driving under the influence and boating under the influence), in efforts to keep all people safe.

Starting today, June 30th, city police and county sheriffs will increase their DUI patrol units.  The increase in law enforcement will continue through the holiday weekend and will start to taper off mid day Tuesday, July 5th.

And for those celebrating the 4th out on a boat in the Seattle waterways, be aware that the coast guard and Seattle police will be out in full force patrolling for possible BUI’s.  Remember that it is illegal to drink alcohol while operating a boat.

Here’s what you can do to prevent DUI’s and BUI’s this Independence Day weekend;
  • The simplest solution to avoid a DUI and BUI is to not drink any type of alcohol or partake in any type of drug use.
  • Designate a sober driver; someone who does not consume any alcohol or drugs through out the entire day.
  • If you are a designated driver or a sober driver, be a good defensive driver and be aware there could be an intoxicated driver on the road.
  • If you do decide to drink, don’t drive and take advantage of all the great public transportation options; taxi, buses, Uber, Rideshare, etc.
  • If you see a friend or family member under the influence that wants to drive, try to get their car keys and suggest an alternative way for them to get home safely.  See our blog, “How You can Prevent a DUI – Tips on getting the Car Keys” for helpful hits.

 

Happy 4th of July from David O Defense!  Stay safe this Independence Day and make smart decisions.

 

Abby Wambach, U.S. Soccer Champ Charged with DUI

Abby Wambach, U.S. Soccer Champ Charged with DUI

Anyone can make a mistake!  U.S. women’s soccer champion, Abby Wambach, recently made a mistake early this month when she was arrested for DUI after having dinner at a friend’s house.  She has taken the high road, admitting she made a mistake of deciding to drive under the influence of alcohol and more importantly voiced that she will not do it again, “I take full responsibility for my actions. This is all on me. I promise that I will do whatever it takes to ensure that my horrible mistake is never repeated.”

Soccer player for DUI blog, "Abby Wambach, U.S. Soccer Star Charged with DUIRetired soccer forward, Abby Wambach, was heading home late Saturday night, April 2nd, when she was arrested for DUI.  According to Portland Oregon police reports, the 35-year old soccer phenomenon ran a red light in her 2014 Range Rover.  Police pulled her over and immediately suspected she had been drinking.  The police asked Abby to take the DUI field sobriety tests and she did trying to be cooperative.

David O Defense always suggests to respectfully refuse to take the DUI field sobriety tests, because they are voluntary tests.  The tests are very difficult on purpose so that individuals will fail.  Even a supreme athlete, such as Abby Wambach, two-time Olympic Soccer gold medalist and six-time winner of soccer athlete of the year, cannot pass the DUI field sobriety tests.

After failing the DUI field sobriety tests Abby was taken to Central Precinct in downtown Portland.  There at the station Abby took a breath test, which she also failed.  She was later released from the precinct after processing.

Soon after Abby released a remorseful message on her Facebook page;

Last night I was arrested for DUI in Portland after dinner at a friend’s house.
Those that know me, know that I have always demanded excellence from myself. I have let myself and others down.
I take full responsibility for my actions. This is all on me. I promise that I will do whatever it takes to ensure that my horrible mistake is never repeated.
I am so sorry to my family, friends, fans and those that look to follow a better example.
– Abby

The moral of this story is that anyone can make a mistake.  Hopefully most can follow Abby Wambach’s example by owning up to their mistake, doing what needs to be done to correct their mistake, and then making sure it doesn’t happen again.

Good luck with your DUI case!