After L.A. County law enforcement promised to increase DUI patrols, police arrested 177 drivers on Super Bowl Sunday for drugged and drunk driving. Police conducted the arrests from 12:01am on Sunday until 12:00am Monday morning. These arrests were part of the "Avoid the 100 Los Angeles County DUI Task Force" efforts to crack down on intoxicated driving in L.A.
During the 24-hour period, police employed DUI checkpoints and "saturation patrols" in the area. "Avoid the 100" efforts will continue through Cinco de Mayo, Memorial Day weekend, and St. Patrick's Day. California Office of Traffic Safety funds the program.
What are my rights at a DUI checkpoint?
California funds thousands of DUI sobriety checkpoints every year. If law enforcement stops you at a DUI checkpoint, it is important to know your rights:
- Police cannot search your vehicle unless they have "probable cause" to believe that you committed a crime. Probable cause for a DUI investigation can be the "odor of alcohol" on your breath, bloodshot eyes, or another symptom of DUI.
- You have the right to refuse Breathalyzer testing, but the police can still arrest you for drunk driving. If you refuse breath testing, the police can arrest you if they have probable cause to suspect that you are guilty of DUI.
- According to the Fifth Amendment, you are not obligated to answer incriminating questions. If law enforcement asks if you were drinking, you can exercise your right to remain silent. Even if your remain silent, police can ask you to take a Breathalyzer test or sobriety test.
Arrested? Contact a DUI attorney in Los Angeles today.
Lessem, Newstat & Tooson, LLP is a criminal defense law firm that serves the greater Los Angeles area. We are passionate about helping people and believe that best defense strategy is based on experience and preparation. If you were arrested for suspicion of drunk driving, contact us today and schedule an evaluation of your case.
