Protect Your Rights: Avoid These Mistakes When Pulled Over For OVI
Being pulled over for suspected OVI (operating a vehicle impaired) in Mentor, Ohio, or surrounding Lake County areas can be a stressful experience. At Carrabine & Reardon, Co., LPA, we’ve been guiding clients through these challenging situations since 2006. Our attorneys have 30 years of experience working with local courts and prosecutors. We’re here to help you understand what to do – and what not to do – if you’re stopped by law enforcement.
Common OVI Mistakes To Avoid
When pulled over for suspected OVI, it’s crucial to be aware of common pitfalls that could complicate your case. Here are four key mistakes to avoid:
- Admitting to drinking: Never volunteer information about alcohol consumption. You have the right to remain silent.
- Refusing to cooperate with basic requests: While you can refuse certain tests, it’s important to provide your license, registration and insurance information when asked.
- Consenting to vehicle searches: Officers need a warrant or probable cause to search your vehicle. Don’t give consent without consulting an attorney.
- Participating in field sobriety tests: These tests are often subjective and can be used against you. You have the right to refuse them.
By avoiding these mistakes, you can better protect your rights and improve your legal position if charges are filed.
Your Rights During A Traffic Stop
Understanding your rights is essential when interacting with law enforcement. Here are three fundamental rights you should be aware of:
- Right to remain silent: You’re not required to answer questions about where you’ve been or what you’ve been doing.
- Right to refuse certain requests: You can decline field sobriety tests and preliminary breath tests.
- Right to legal representation: You have the right to speak with an OVI lawyer before answering questions.
Knowing and asserting these rights can significantly impact the outcome of your case. If you’re unsure about how to proceed during a traffic stop, it’s always best to consult with an experienced OVI attorney as soon as possible.
How Our OVI Lawyers Can Help
As part of the Mentor community, we understand local laws and court procedures. Our attorneys work tirelessly to pursue effective strategies for your case. We pride ourselves on our communication skills, responsiveness and availability to our clients.
One of our attorneys has been included in the Super Lawyers list and has received an AV Preeminent* peer-review rating through Martindale-Hubbell, reflecting our commitment to excellence in OVI defense.
Contact Us For Experienced OVI Defense
If you’re facing OVI charges in Mentor or anywhere in Lake County, Ohio, don’t wait to seek legal help. Our OVI attorneys are ready to review your case and work toward a positive outcome. Call Carrabine & Reardon Co., LPA, today at 440-299-6131 or by filling out an online form to schedule a consultation.
*AV®, AV Preeminent®, Martindale-Hubbell Distinguished and Martindale-Hubbell Notable are certification marks used under license in accordance with the Martindale-Hubbell certification procedures, standards and policies. Martindale-Hubbell® is the facilitator of a peer-review rating process. Ratings reflect the anonymous opinions of members of the bar and the judiciary. Martindale-Hubbell® Peer Review Ratings™ fall into two categories – legal ability and general ethical standards.