In Mississippi, officers can pull you over if they think that you are driving under the influence of alcohol. When they do so, there is a possibility they might ask you to participate in some tests to help them gather evidence that either supports or rules out a DUI arrest.
What officers look for during a traffic stop
When officers conduct sobriety tests, they keep an eye out for certain signs. By studying how you drive, how you behave during the stop and how well you can perform simple tasks, they can gather evidence for a DUI arrest. Signs officers pay attention to include:
- Driving habits: Swerving, taking wide turns, drifting or being late to hit the brakes
- Physical behavior: The smell of alcohol, slurred speech, glassy eyes or open liquor containers
- Other indicators: Struggling with balance and coordination, difficulty following instructions or inability to count or think with clarity
All of these clues help an officer decide what to do next. Even small mistakes or unusual behavior can add up and arouse suspicion, influencing the decision to conduct further testing. If an officer asks you to take part in breath and blood tests, you may face a license suspension for refusing under Mississippi’s implied consent law.
Understanding your rights during field sobriety tests
Officers use field sobriety tests to help them decide if there is enough evidence to make a DUI arrest. If an officer stops you, stay calm, be polite and remember your rights. Field sobriety tests are voluntary, which means you can refuse to participate without facing legal penalties. Just keep in mind that saying no may arouse an officer’s suspicion if they already assume you are driving under the influence.
If you receive a DUI charge in Mississippi, understanding the difference between voluntary field tests and mandatory chemical testing is crucial to your defense. With the help of an attorney, you can deepen your understanding of complex laws, familiarize yourself with your rights and seek guidance on how to proceed.