As you are undoubtedly aware, new drinking and driving laws came into effect several months ago. Needless to say, these updated regulations were met with some concern and criticism. While the goal of these more stringent rules are admirable, the actual strategies are a bit overwhelming.
For one thing, the new regulations put quite a bit of power in the hands of the police. After all, they are allowed to stop and impose a Breathalyzer test without any reasoning. This means that quite a few innocent drivers may end up getting pushed around quite a bit. If you want to make certain that this doesn’t happen to you, here is what you need to know:
Be Aware of the Exact Regulations
First things first, you should have a good knowledge of what these new rules mean. To start with, you should be aware that a police officer now has every right to demand a Breathalyzer test, even if he or she doesn’t have any proof of intoxication.
This means that resisting such a request isn’t a good idea, especially if you haven’t had any alcohol at all. Rather than creating a scene, it is often best to do as you are being asked. However, if you do feel like you are being unfairly treated, drinking and driving lawyers can help to diffuse the situation.
Know Your Rights
Among other changes, police officers in Canada are now allowed to test for intoxication using a wide variety of techniques. Now, while you may imagine that this doesn’t affect you, it may. Understand, not all testing methods are equally reliable. In fact, many roadside tests are often not entirely accurate.
So, if you have reason to believe that the method being used is flawed, you should make a note of it. This way, if you do need to defend yourself in court, your attorney may be able to use this piece of information to get your offense overturned.
Have an Attorney at the Ready
Most people make the mistake of only looking around for an attorney after they have been levelled with a criminal charge. By this time, though, it may be too late and the damage could already be done. Given the new laws in place, it may be prudent for you to have a MassTsang, Toronto DUI lawyer on speed dial instead.
This way, if you are pulled over and want to contest the results of a Breathalyzer test, you will not have to wait long. Simply call up your attorney and they will tend to the problem straight away. Hopefully, the issue will not go much further than this.
As you can see, there are quite a few things that you need to be aware of when navigating these new regulations. You really can’t afford to be uninformed about this matter. So, if you are concerned about what the law means for you, speak to a legal professional.
They will be better equipped to tell you about all of the major and minor details associated with these regulations. You will then be in a better position to defend yourself.
