One minute, you’re driving along a Minnesota roadway, and the next, you notice red and blue lights flashing on a police car behind you. You bring your vehicle to a safe stop on the side of the road. An officer approaches, asks to see your driver’s license and registration, then asks you to step out of your vehicle. The latter request is typically made when a police officer suspects someone of drunk driving.
A failed field sobriety test can lead to your arrest
Taking a field sobriety test typically involves having to perform various physical activities and following a list of simple instructions given to you by a police officer. Keep in mind that a police officer may use a failed performance as probable cause to arrest you for suspected DWI. If you wind up facing DWI charges and having to submit to the Minnesota Ignition Interlock Program, there are several things to keep in mind.
An interlock system must be installed on any vehicle you drive
If the state requires you to enter the ignition interlock treatment program, you will have to pay for a device to be installed on the steering column of your car. You will not be permitted to operate any motor vehicle that does not have the device installed in it. To start your car, you have to blow into the device and register negative for alcohol on your breath. You’ll also have to take “rolling tests” approximately every 15 minutes while driving, to repeat the test and register negative results.
Finding a way to mitigate your circumstances
Being convicted of DWI can negatively affect your life in many ways. Depending on several factors, such as whether it is your first offense, there may be several defense strategies available to help mitigate your circumstances. At DWI Guys, an experienced legal team can help explore your options and act on your behalf to seek the most favorable outcome possible in court.
