If you have experienced a DWI traffic stop in Texas before, you may have a different experience the next time that you get pulled over. The state of Texas is currently testing a new system that could make it quicker for law enforcement officers to obtain blood draw warrants. The testing is taking place in Leander and Liberty Hill. The technology lets officers in the field send DWI blood search warrants directly to a judge, which reduces the amount of time that passes between the traffic stop and the blood draw.
With the traffic stop procedures that are in place right now, a DWI stop in some locations can take between four and six hours from start to finish. The current method also involves locating a judge and meeting with them in person to obtain their signature on the search warrant. Depending upon where the traffic stop occurs, it may also involve placing the suspect in jail for some time, as well as transporting them to a hospital for a blood alcohol test.
If the testing goes well and the state decides to adopt the new system, officers will be able to get more accurate blood alcohol test results because the sample will get taken closer to the time of driving. DWI suspects will benefit because they will be detained for far less time unless, of course, their test results reveal a blood-alcohol level over the legal limit.
Some DWI defense attorneys are concerned that the new system may not give defendants enough protection. For example, electronic documents do not enable a judge to look at the warrant with the officer right there next to them and available to answer questions that the judge may have. There is also the possibility that judges may be quick to approve electronic warrants and not give them a thorough read-through before indicating their approval.
Whether the new blood test warrant technology gets implemented or not, the strategies for getting through a traffic stop with the least amount of damage remain the same. Be as calm and respectful as you can. Say as little as possible while complying with the officer’s reasonable requests for information like your registration, license, and proof of car insurance. Remember that it is possible to be polite and respectful while declining to answer questions regarding where you were and what you did – you can just say that you want to talk to a lawyer. Also, be aware that the officer is looking for any and all evidence that they can use to support the conclusion that they had already arrived at when they decided to pull you over – the conclusion that you are driving under the influence of alcohol. Actions can speak louder than words, so in addition to saying as little as you can, move as little as you can. In other words, do not get out of the car to perform field sobriety tests because even sober people can wobble or falter, especially when they are under pressure.
Texas DWI Defense Attorney Alex Tyra – Protecting the Rights of DWI Defendants
If you are facing Texas DWI charges and you have questions, a Texas DWI Defense Attorney can help you find the information that you’re seeking. Call Texas DWI Defense Attorney Alex Tyra today at (903) 753-7499 to schedule a consultation or submit an online contact form through our website.