Driving home after one too many drinks is a risk too many people take. You will face consequences if you’re pulled over by an officer while inebriated. And if you act in an unruly manner toward them, you may receive extra charges.

No one thinks or hopes that they will receive a DUI. But in case of one, it’s crucial to know what behaviors to avoid.

Agreeing to a field sobriety test

A field sobriety test may seem harmless. But law enforcement officials can use it as incriminating evidence against you. Even when sober, this test is not always easy to pass. You may fear that resisting it will lead to your arrest. But under Tennessee law, you have the right to refuse one.

Refusing a breathalyzer test

In Tennessee, motorists observe implied consent laws when submitted to blood alcohol concentration (BAC) testing. This law means that anyone who chooses to operate a vehicle in the state gives automatic consent to a breathalyzer test. Yet, if an officer requests you take a blood test to determine your BAC, you can refuse it. But resisting a breathalyzer test comes with repercussions. If you do so, your license will likely face suspension.

Resisting arrest

If you’re intoxicated, you may engage in actions that you wouldn’t when sober. You may try fleeing the scene or wriggling out of the officer’s attempts to arrest you. You may even try to start an altercation with them if you’re particularly aggravated. Resisting arrest can lead to either misdemeanor or felony charges, depending upon the severity of your actions. And assaulting an officer carries a fine of up to $15,000 and a sentence of up to one year in prison.

DUI traffic stops will stress out anyone. But many people make mistakes during them that only exacerbate matters. Working with a criminal defense lawyer can help you understand the impact of your actions and charges.