Do I Have To Take a DUI Alcohol Test?

 Posted on May 31, 2014 in Driving Under the Influence

If you are pulled over and accused of DUI in Connecticut, you should know the state’s implied consent law. The law mandates that you consent to a urine, blood, or breath test if you have been arrested for a DUI. If the officer arresting you has probable cause, then you give your consent to having this test done.

The officer chooses which test is to be done, but it must be given within two hours of when you were actually driving a vehicle. Without penalty, you can refuse the blood test if you wish, meaning that the officer can choose from one of the remaining test. The officer must also inform you of your constitutional rights when you are arrested and explain that your license may be suspended if you refuse to take a test.

If you refuse to take the test, that information can be used against you in court. An officer doesn’t have the responsibility to explain that you can contact your attorney prior to taking a test, which you might want to consider doing so that you are aware of all your rights at that time.

If you refuse to take the test, that arresting officer will take away your license and therefore your right to drive. He or she then has a few days to create a report explaining their reasoning for believing you were driving under the influence and name a witness who saw you refuse the test. You may request a hearing to challenge your license suspension once the report is officially filed. These details are very important in a Connecticut DUI case, which is why it’s always helpful to have an experienced attorney reviewing the details of your arrest with you. If you have been accused of a DUI, knowing your rights and using them is critical. Contact a Connecticut criminal defense attorney today.