Many adults like to enjoy an alcoholic beverage or two when they spend time with friends or go out to eat. However, those beverages could get you into trouble if you are not careful. In all 50 states, it is illegal to drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol. In Wisconsin, OWI penalties can be expensive, especially if you have to pay other costs, like for an ignition interlock device (IID). During a traffic stop, police officers will constantly be looking for evidence or anything that can prove that you were, in fact, driving while you were intoxicated. If you are pulled over for OWI, you should know that you have rights.
Rights During an OWI Traffic Stop
While you may feel helpless when you are pulled over by police, it is important to realize that you do have rights that you can exercise that may protect you if you are charged. Some of the most important rights include:
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Right to Remain Silent: Even during a traffic stop, you have the right to remain silent. The only information that you are required to give to the police is your identification. You do not have to answer questions about what you have been doing and where you are heading. If you wish to invoke this right, you should inform the officer.
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