To combat drunk driving, sobriety checkpoints are becoming a standard fixture in North Carolina.

Law enforcement is working hard to combat the number of alcohol-related accidents and deaths — and rightfully so. With more than 4,102 deaths from 2003 to 2012 caused by drunken drivers, the state should create measures to prevent further losses.

However, implementing the use of sobriety checkpoints to catch drunken drivers is not always effective. Also, those subjected to these stops border on Fourth Amendment violations.

If your vehicle is stopped at one of these DWI checkpoints, you have rights. Even if you had a single drink at dinner, do not allow law enforcement to take advantage of that fact.

You have rights at a sobriety checkpoint. While you might assume that DWI checkpoints are illegal, the state of North Carolina allows law enforcement to deploy these when they see fit. However, law enforcement is restricted as far as what they can do, and what would be considered a violation of your rights.

While law enforcement is provided with some flexibility at these sobriety checkpoints, errors often occur. Regardless of the reasons for your arrest at a checkpoint, you may have a viable defense strategy for the DWI charges.

Therefore, contact a criminal defense attorney immediately to explore your options. The Law Firm of John C. Fitzpatrick, P.C. can assist you with your DWI case.

Schedule a free consultation today at 919-683-9500 or send a message online with your legal questions.

The post Drunk Driving and Sobriety Checkpoints: What are My Rights? appeared first on Law Office of John C. Fitzpatrick | Durham Attorneys | DWI, Criminal Defense, Car Accidents.