Caused An Accident While Driving Under The Influence? 3 Mistakes You Need To Avoid
If you've caused a car accident while you were driving under the influence, you might think it's no big deal, especially if no one was hurt. Unfortunately, that could get in even bigger trouble. A DUI can ruin your life. If you've been charged with a DUI following a car accident, you need to take it seriously. That means, you need to make sure you avoid any, and all, mistakes that could come back and hurt you later. Here are just three of the mistakes you need to avoid.
Going to Court Without Representation
If you walk into court without legal representation, you're asking for trouble. DUI laws are complex, and one misstep could leave you in even bigger trouble than you started out in. During the initial court hearing, the arresting officer will be giving a statement. If you're not prepared to cross-examine, the judge will stick with whatever statement the arresting officer provides, even if that statement isn't correct, or contains errors. Not only that, but additional evidence may be entered into the case. If you're not prepared to argue against that evidence, it will be used against you. An experienced DUI attorney will know what questions to ask the arresting officer, and will know exactly what to do with the evidence that's being used against you.
Not Going to Court At All
If you've decided to forego legal representation, and forego the initial court hearing, as well. You're looking at an automatic suspension of your driving privileges. That means your drivers license will be revoked, and you will no longer be allowed to drive. If you depend on your vehicle for work, or to transport your family, you'll no longer be able to do that. If you've been charged with a DUI, you need to show up for all your court hearings. That's the only way you'll be able to persuade the judge to allow you to keep your license. It's also the only way you can possibly get the charges reduced, or dropped altogether.
Taking the DA's First Offer
Once you've been arrested, and charged with a DUI, the DA may offer you a plea deal. The worst thing you can do is take the first offer you're given. If you haven't hired legal counsel yet, you need to do that as soon as the DA makes you and offer. They'll help you understand the ramifications of accepting a plea deal, and will also know if the offer is the best you can get.
