What to Do if You’re Pulled Over for Suspected Drugged Driving in Tennessee

If you have recently been pulled over for suspected drugged driving in Tennessee, it’s natural to feel confused, anxious, and uncertain about what happens next. You may be asking yourself questions like, “What will the officer do? Should I admit to using substances? What are my rights?” We understand the stress you’re under, and it’s important to know that you’re not alone. At our firm, we understand the challenges you’re facing and are here to help guide you through this difficult time. A drugged driving charge is a serious matter, but there are steps you can take to protect yourself and your rights.

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Understanding Drugged Driving Charges in Tennessee

Tennessee law prohibits driving under the influence of drugs, whether those drugs are prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, or illegal substances. If a law enforcement officer suspects you of being under the influence of drugs while driving, they may pull you over. The officer will observe your behavior, and if they believe you show signs of being impaired, they may conduct further tests or investigations to determine whether you are impaired by drugs.

Drugged driving charges can carry severe penalties, including license suspension, fines, and even jail time. In some cases, the charges may be more serious if the drugs involved are illegal substances. Given the potential consequences, it’s important to know how to respond if you’re pulled over under these circumstances.

What to Do When Pulled Over

First and foremost, if you are pulled over by law enforcement for suspected drugged driving, it’s important to remain calm and cooperative. Though you have the right to remain silent and refuse to answer certain questions, being respectful and complying with lawful requests can help you avoid escalating the situation.

When the officer approaches your vehicle, remain seated and keep your hands visible. If it is dark, turn on your interior lights so the officer can see you clearly. Do not make sudden movements that could raise suspicion. Be prepared to provide the officer with your driver’s license, registration, and proof of insurance if asked.

Know Your Rights During the Traffic Stop

It’s important to remember that you have rights during a traffic stop. While you may be required to provide some basic information, such as your name and driver’s license, you do not have to admit to being under the influence or agree to a search of your vehicle. If the officer asks you to perform a field sobriety test, you have the right to refuse. However, refusing a field sobriety test could lead to additional consequences, such as the officer obtaining a warrant for a blood test.

If the officer asks you to submit to a blood or urine test to measure the presence of drugs, you can refuse, but it’s important to know that refusing these tests may result in an automatic license suspension under Tennessee’s implied consent law. While you do have the right to refuse, there are consequences for doing so.

It’s also important to understand that you do not have to answer questions about whether you’ve been using drugs, what drugs you may have taken, or when you last used them. If you do choose to speak, anything you say could potentially be used against you later in court. It’s often wise to politely decline to answer such questions without the guidance of an attorney.

Garth Best was extremely helpful in my case. He explored and explained everything to me clearly and never stopped checking out every option. I am absolutely grateful I chose him as my attorney. Best and Brock are a great choice for representation. Thanks again.

- Jeremy Forgey

Matt Brock did an outstanding job with my case. Very thorough and knowledgeable attorney, highly recommended. Its very obvious through my interactions with him that he has the experience and knowledge to win in court. I will not go anywhere else. Great job, much appreciated.

- Chris Griffin

 

Field Sobriety Tests and Blood Tests

Field sobriety tests are often used by officers to determine if a driver is impaired. These tests can include tasks such as walking in a straight line, standing on one leg, or following an object with your eyes. If you are asked to take these tests, you can refuse, though doing so may lead to further suspicion or the officer requesting a blood or urine test to detect drug use.

If a blood test is conducted, the results will determine whether any drugs were present in your system at the time of the traffic stop. However, these tests may not always be accurate, and the presence of certain prescription medications, even in the prescribed dose, could be misinterpreted as impairment. For this reason, it’s essential to have an experienced attorney review the results of any tests to ensure they were conducted properly and the results are accurate.

What Happens After the Traffic Stop

Once the officer has completed their investigation, they may arrest you if they believe they have enough evidence to charge you with drugged driving. At this point, you will likely be taken to a local police station for booking, where you may be asked to take additional tests. Following your arrest, you will have an opportunity to contact a lawyer who can begin helping you navigate the legal process.

In some cases, you may be released on bail while you await your court date. You will need to attend all required court appearances, and failing to do so could result in further charges or complications. Your attorney will work with you to understand your case and develop a defense strategy that could help you achieve the best possible outcome in court.

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Why You Should Contact an Attorney

If you are facing a drugged driving charge in Tennessee, it’s important to contact a lawyer as soon as possible. A knowledgeable attorney can help protect your rights, analyze the evidence against you, and craft a defense strategy that gives you the best chance for a positive result. Drugged driving charges can have long-lasting consequences, but with the right legal guidance, you may be able to avoid the most severe penalties.

An attorney can investigate the circumstances surrounding your arrest, including the legality of the traffic stop and whether the officer had probable cause to pull you over. They will also examine the administration of any tests to ensure they were conducted properly. If there were any errors or violations of your rights during the process, this could help weaken the prosecution’s case against you.

At our firm, we understand the stress and uncertainty you may be feeling after being pulled over for suspected drugged driving. We are here to provide you with the guidance and support you need to navigate this challenging time. Our team will thoroughly review the facts of your case, protect your rights, and work tirelessly to help you achieve the best possible outcome.

If you’re facing drugged driving charges in Tennessee, don’t try to handle the situation alone. Reach out to us today to schedule a consultation. We are here to help and will fight for you every step of the way. Trust us to provide the legal support you need during this difficult time.

To learn more about this subject click here: Common Misconceptions About Drugged Driving Cases