One of the worst things you can see in your rearview mirror while at the wheel is flashing red lights. Seeing those lights can mean any number of things, including a serious offense that could land you in jail.
If stopped for DUI allegations, make sure you take it seriously. Not doing so can lead to repercussions. Those repercussions can mean problems in both your personal and professional lives.
Should you be facing such a situation, local attorney Susan Hartman is only a phone call away. 
The Law Offices of Susan L. Hartman opened in 2010, with a convenient office located 8880 Rio San Diego Drive in Mission Valley. Hartman is a skilled DUI defense attorney committed to providing exceptional legal counsel to those facing DUI charges. She serves clients throughout San Diego, as well as Orange, Riverside, Imperial Valley, and Los Angeles Counties.
San Diego Downtown & Uptown News recently caught up with Hartman for an email Q&A.
THE LAW OFFICES OF SUSAN L. HARTMAN
Location: 8880 Rio San Diego Drive
Phone number: (619) 260-1122
Website: SanDiegoDUILawyersBlog.com
Social media:
facebook.com/TheLawOfficesOfSusanLHartman
instagram.com/duidefense.hartmanlaw
DTN/UTN: What are some typical mistakes a driver makes when pulled over for allegedly driving under the influence?
Hartman: When drivers are pulled over under suspicion of DUI, several common mistakes can worsen their situation:
- Failing to remain calm: Becoming argumentative or defensive with the officer can escalate the situation.
- Agreeing to take field sobriety tests: These tests are voluntary and often fail to provide reliable evidence of impairment.
- Lying to the officer: While you do have a right to remain silent and not incriminate yourself, you do not have a right to lie. This can lead to additional charges and more severe penalties.
- Refusing a breath or blood test after arrest: While refusing a blood or breath test after arrest is an option, the law enforcement agency will often obtain a warrant for blood and obtain it without your consent. This often leads to more severe consequences including a license suspension without restriction options.
DTN/UTN: Why is fighting a DUI in court so important given the potential fallout from a conviction?
Hartman: Fighting a DUI charge in court is critical due to the significant long-term consequences of a conviction. A DUI conviction can result in steep fines, mandatory alcohol education programs, a license suspension, and even jail time. Beyond these immediate penalties, a conviction can lead to a criminal record, which may impact employment opportunities, travel, and personal reputation. Additionally, the financial burden of insurance rate hikes can be considerable. Therefore, contesting the charge is vital to protect one’s rights, reputation, and future.
DTN/UTN: Besides alcohol, what are some other DUI offenses a driver can be cited and even arrested for?
Hartman: While alcohol is the most well-known cause of DUI charges, there are various other substances that can lead to DUI arrests, including:
- Prescription medications: Drugs such as painkillers, anti-anxiety medications, and sleep medications can impair driving and lead to DUI charges.
- Marijuana: With the legalization of cannabis, driving under the influence of marijuana is a growing concern, and drivers can be arrested for DUI if impaired by it.
- Illegal drugs: Substances such as cocaine, heroin, or methamphetamine can lead to a DUI arrest if they affect the driver’s ability to operate a vehicle safely.
- Over-the-counter medications: Certain medications, including antihistamines or cold medicines, can impair motor skills and lead to a DUI arrest.
DTN/UTN: If a San Diego resident is arrested for DUI while driving in another state, what advice would you give them?
Hartman: If a San Diego resident is arrested for DUI in another state, the following advice can help:
- Stay calm and cooperate: Regardless of the location, it’s essential to remain calm and comply with the officers’ orders during the arrest. However, remember that you have the right to remain silent, refuse the field sobriety tests, and request an attorney.
- Contact a local DUI attorney: Immediately reach out to a local DUI defense attorney in the state where the arrest took place. They will be familiar with the local laws and court procedures and can help navigate the process.
- California DMV: If your license is suspended in another state where the incident occurred, the California DMV may take action on your California driving privileges as well, so it’s important to deal with both the local court and the DMV.
If you or a loved one is facing a DUI charge in San Diego or the surrounding counties, don’t hesitate to reach out.
With years of experience in DUI defense, Hartman is dedicated to protecting your rights and ensuring the best possible outcome for your case.
Top photo credit: Pixabay.com
Discussion about this post