Reader’s Question:

It’s alarming that so many people I know are being caught drunk driving here in Anchorage, Alaska. Of course, I wouldn’t want the same thing to happen to me. If I was asked to stop for a DUI suspicion, what do you think is the best I can do if I’m already placed under arrest?

Ciara

Anchorage, AK

The sad truth is that if you read police reports, it can be frustrating sometimes to know the statements of people who are caught drunk driving. The common problem here is that most people arrested for DUI in Anchorage, Alaska don’t know that they have the right to refuse to answer questions that might incriminate them before they are arrested.

It is very important to always remember that everything you say from the point you are approached by the police officer until you are released from custody can, and most likely will, be in a subsequent police report, and it may be used against you at trial. You don’t need to say anything to the police officer other than your name and insurance information. Also, don’t offer information such as “I only had two beers” or “I’m upset because my boyfriend just broke up with me.” Don’t even make jokes to the police officer. Don’t argue with them, or swear at the officer because you will later regret it.

It is possible for a DUI lawyer to get the statements thrown out, but it is also possible that a judge may leave them intact and they will then be intact for a jury to hear. So always remember to be quiet, give out only essential information, and hope for the best.

Tags: DUI, DUI advice, DUI arrest