Why Do Police Ask Hard Questions During Traffic Stops?
Traffic stops are difficult situations for all involved. The officers have to be prepared for the worst. Drivers, likewise, can only hope things proceed smoothly.
If you have drank alcohol or taken strong medication, then a DUI arrest could result. One way the police decide whether to administer a blood concentration test is by asking difficult questions. The overall goal is to rattle the suspect driver, causing a tell-tale mistake of being under the influence. At that point, the officers have the probable cause to begin contemplating an arrest.
So, you may wonder, just what are these divided-attention questions and why are they legal?
Types of Divided-Attention Policing Techniques
One common divided-attention questioning practice is to have a driver attempt more than one thing at a time. "Show me your license and motor vehicle registration," could be the first request; then, while the driver reaches for the documents, an officer will ask a tangential question designed to distract. A sober person will usually proceed with little problem. On the other hand, those under the influence of drugs or alcohol may find it impossible to complete two things at once.
In some cases, the police may even have a driver exit the vehicle to perform physical tasks. Standing on one leg while answering difficult questions or counting large numbers can prove quite the chore for an inebriated driver.
Legality of Distracting Techniques
Some Americans believe the police should not be allowed to purposely distract drivers during stops. They find doing so unethical. However, laws allow such actions because there is a legitimate purpose in mind. The police have to establish which drivers are on the roads putting lives in danger.
A motorist who cannot handle this form of questioning might not have the attention span required to prevent an accident. Drivers have to make split-second decisions. Those under the influence might not make the correct choice. The police want to catch these individuals before someone gets hurt.
Get Legal Help With Traffic Stops From a Compassionate DUI Lawyer
If during a stop police asked questions that you feel inappropriate, it is best to speak with an experienced DUI defense lawyer as soon as possible. This legal representative will have the latest information on legitimate policing techniques to discern if the stop might have violated some rule.
Your DUI defense lawyer might be able to challenge the testing or subsequent arrest to prevent you from having to suffer the stigma of a criminal record.
For a DUI defense lawyer, contact a lawyer such as R. Patrick McPherson Attorney At Law.
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