Starting at the beginning of last December, the Lynnwood Police Department began conducting distracted driving emphasis patrols. Distracted driving encompasses anything from changing the radio station to texting while driving. Because police officers will be twice as diligent about catching distracted drivers in action, they are more likely to begin pulling people over if they observe reprehensible behavior.

This can be an issue for people who have been driving under the influence (DUI) of drugs or alcohol. If you had a drink or two before beginning to drive home, you could be pulled over after a police officer observes you making a call, fiddling with your radio, or even eating while driving.

While you may not have been observed swerving or doing any other maneuver that would indicate some level of inebriation, a police officer might detect alcohol on your breath or notice you slurring your words. He or she then has probable cause to ask you to take a field sobriety test or a handheld breathalyzer test.

Part of the increase in patrols for distracted driving comes from statistics. According to the National Traffic Safety Council, around 26% of collisions involve distracted driving. Even if a police officer pulls you over on suspicion of distracted driving, he or she has the right to continue investigating you if he or she has probable cause to believe you might be inebriated.

The best thing to do if you've had a couple of drinks is to take a taxi or ridesharing service home, wait a couple of hours until you've sobered up, or take the precaution of leaving any distracting items in the trunk before you begin driving.

If you have been accused of a DUI, don't hesitate to give our skilled Lynnwood DUI lawyer a call. The Law Office of Mark W. Garka, PLLC is dedicated to providing clients with experienced criminal defense advice and advocacy. Let us see what we can do to defend your rights and freedom.

Contact us at (888) 252-1961 or fill out our online form to schedule a case consultation today.