Attorney
Being pulled over on suspicion of DUI can be one of the most stressful and intimidating experiences a driver may face. Whether you’ve had a drink or not, how you handle the stop can significantly impact the outcome of your case. At Staples Law Group, we understand the anxiety that comes with these situations, and we’re here to guide you through what to expect and how to protect your rights if you’re stopped for suspected DUI in Florida—especially here in Pensacola, where enforcement is strict, and penalties can be severe.
Understanding the Basics of a DUI Stop
In Florida, a DUI stop typically occurs when law enforcement observes signs of impaired driving, such as:
- Swerving or erratic lane changes
- Driving well below or above the speed limit
- Running stop signs or traffic signals
- Delayed reaction to traffic signals
- Reports from other drivers
Once you’re stopped, the officer is trained to observe everything—from your speech to your eye movements—and may request that you participate in roadside sobriety tests or take a breathalyzer. Knowing your rights before this happens is critical.
What You Should Do During a DUI Stop
How you conduct yourself can make a significant difference in your case. Here are some steps you should follow:
Remain Calm and Polite
- Keep your hands visible and stay in your vehicle unless instructed otherwise.
- Avoid sudden movements or arguing with the officer.
Provide Basic Information
- You are legally required to provide your driver’s license, registration, and proof of insurance.
- Do not offer more information than necessary.
Know Your Right to Remain Silent
- You are not required to answer questions like “Have you been drinking tonight?”
- Politely decline to answer and state that you would like to speak with an attorney.
Decide Whether to Submit to Tests
- Florida’s implied consent law means that refusing a breath, blood, or urine test can result in an automatic license suspension (usually one year for first-time refusal).
- However, these tests are not always reliable, and refusal may limit the evidence against you. This is a decision best made with legal counsel.
Field Sobriety Tests: What to Expect
You may be asked to perform one or more field sobriety tests, such as:
- Walk-and-turn
- One-leg stand
- Horizontal gaze nystagmus (eye movement test)
These tests are not mandatory, and you are legally allowed to decline them. In many cases, these tests are subjective and can be affected by medical conditions, nervousness, or even poor weather or road conditions.
Understanding the Consequences of a DUI Arrest
If you are arrested for DUI in Pensacola or anywhere in Florida, the consequences can be serious—even for a first offense:
- Up to six months in jail
- Fines ranging from $500 to $1,000
- License suspension of up to one year
- DUI school and substance abuse treatment
- Possible ignition interlock device installation
- A permanent criminal record
If there were aggravating circumstances (such as a minor in the car or a BAC over 0.15), penalties may be significantly higher.
What to Do Immediately After a DUI Arrest
If you’re arrested for DUI, your first call should be to an experienced DUI defense attorney. In the meantime:
- Do not discuss your case with police or others until you speak with your lawyer
- Write down everything you remember about the stop, tests, and arrest
- Request a DMV hearing to challenge your license suspension—you only have 10 days to do this
An experienced attorney may be able to challenge the legality of the stop, the accuracy of any tests, or other aspects of the arrest to reduce or dismiss the charges.
How Staples Law Group Can Help
At Staples Law Group, we understand the local legal landscape and have helped clients across Pensacola and the Florida Panhandle fight DUI charges with strategic, results-driven defense. We’ll work to:
- Investigate the legality of the stop and arrest
- Review police reports, videos, and test procedures
- Challenge faulty BAC results or field sobriety tests
- Advocate for reduced penalties or dismissal
- Represent you at DMV and court hearings
Don’t Navigate a DUI Alone — Let Staples Law Group Fight for You
If you’ve been stopped for a suspected DUI in Pensacola, acting quickly and strategically is key to protecting your rights and your future. With the right legal team on your side, you may be able to avoid the harshest penalties and get your life back on track.
Contact Staples Law Group today for a confidential DUI defense consultation. We’re here to help you face the charges—and the future—with confidence.