What Are Some Common Defenses to Drunk Driving Charges?

What Are Some Common Defenses to Drunk Driving Charges?

Facing a drunk driving charge can be a daunting and life-altering experience, potentially leading to severe penalties such as license suspension, fines or even jail time. However, it’s important to remember that being charged doesn’t equate to being guilty. There are numerous defenses available to challenge these allegations and protect your rights. Understanding these defenses is crucial when working with an experienced DUI attorney who can craft a solid strategy tailored to your case. At Worthley Law LLC, we are committed to helping you seek the best possible outcome by utilizing a range of legal defenses.

Questioning the Legality of the Traffic Stop

One of the most common defenses in drunk driving cases is challenging the legality of the traffic stop. For an officer to pull you over, there must be sufficient probable cause. This means law enforcement must have observed behavior that reasonably suggests impaired driving, such as swerving, speeding or running a red light. If the officer stopped you without legitimate grounds—for example, solely acting on an unverified anonymous tip—any evidence gathered during the stop could be ruled inadmissible in court. An attorney will examine the circumstances surrounding the traffic stop and determine whether the officer adhered to the law.

Challenging the Accuracy of Breathalyzer and Blood Tests

Breathalyzer devices are widely used in DUI cases, but they are not infallible. These devices must be properly calibrated and maintained to produce accurate readings. Even minor errors in maintenance can lead to inflated blood alcohol concentration (BAC) results. Furthermore, an officer’s failure to follow established procedures during administration of the test may compromise the results.

Similarly, blood tests used to confirm intoxication can be scrutinized. If the sample was mishandled, improperly stored or contaminated, the results could be challenged. An experienced DUI attorney will investigate all aspects of how your BAC was measured to ensure that the evidence is reliable and admissible in court.

Improper Administration of Field Sobriety Tests

Field sobriety tests, like the one-leg stand or walk-and-turn, are often used by officers to evaluate impairment. However, these tests can be flawed due to various factors unrelated to alcohol consumption. Uneven surfaces, poor lighting, medical conditions or fatigue can negatively affect performance, leading to false indications of impairment.

Additionally, officers must be adequately trained to conduct these tests according to standardized protocols. If an officer failed to administer the test properly, the results could be called into question, weakening the case against you.

Examining Improper Searches and Violations of Your Rights

Another common defense in DUI cases involves improper searches of your vehicle. Law enforcement must have clear probable cause to conduct a search without a warrant. If officers conducted an illegal search or failed to follow the appropriate procedures, any evidence they obtained—such as open containers or drugs—could be suppressed. This could significantly damage the prosecution’s case.

Building a Strong Defense with Worthley Law LLC

If you’re facing a drunk driving charge, it’s essential to have an experienced legal team by your side to evaluate all potential defenses. At Worthley Law LLC, we understand the significant stress and uncertainty that come with such charges, and we are here to guide you through every step of the legal process. Our team challenges traffic stops, test accuracy and other procedural errors to protect the rights of our clients. Contact us today for a consultation, and learn how we can help you work toward the best possible outcome.