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3 things you can refuse when stopped by police

On behalf of Shults Law Office • April 27, 2018

Many tourists come to the Sevierville, Tennessee area for the wealth of attractions, from Dollywood in Pigeon Forge to the natural beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. What you may not know as a visitor to the area, however, is that local law enforcement is extremely vigilant in policing. You may find yourself facing DUI charges if you drive while under the influence on vacation.

Here are three things you can refuse when police pull you over.

1. You can say no to a police search of your vehicle

You do not have to let police search your vehicle during a traffic stop if they request to do so. It is your constitutional right under the Fourth Amendment to refuse this search. This can ultimately protect you if you have to go to court, even if police do move forward with the search.

2. You can refuse consent to a Breathalyzer test

If police pull you over on the suspicion that you are driving under the influence, they will most likely ask you to take a Breathalyzer test to reveal your blood alcohol content. Although a wrongful refusal is not technically a criminal violation of Tennessee state law, it does carry the risk of some harsh penalties. If you decide to refuse a breath test, you should contact a DUI attorney to assist you in moving forward with your case.

3. You can refuse to speak without an attorney

If law enforcement arrests you, you can refuse to speak to police without an attorney present. Although police officers may present themselves as friendly to try to get you to talk freely, they are not your friends. An attorney, on the other hand, has your best interests in mind, and will work to guide you through the process and protect your rights.

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