With Fourth of July celebrations behind us, motorcyclists here in Erie and throughout Northwest Pennsylvania and the surrounding region are turning their attention toward the premier motorcycle event of the year: the Roar on the Shore.
Tens of thousands of motorcyclists and their friends will ride into Erie for the 11th annual bike week, which runs from July 12-16. The week will feature scheduled rides, concerts, and other fun events.
Along with all of the week’s festivities, riders and their passengers can be sure that local and state police will be out in force looking for impaired drivers. While police have not advertised any roadside checkpoints, it is a good bet that riders will encounter one at some point.
Keep the following in mind
If you are stopped on suspicion of DUI, remember that you have rights. One of the most important is that you have the right to remain silent when police are asking you questions. You can also refuse to take any field sobriety tests or a preliminary (pre-arrest) Breathalyzer test. In most circumstances (i.e., except for cases in which your license has already been suspended for a DUI offense, your vehicle has been equipped with an “interlock” device, or in cases involving a death or serious bodily injury) you may also refuse to undergo any post-arrest chemical testing (blood or breathalyzer). If you have been placed under arrest, however, your refusal to submit to chemical testing (blood or Breathalyzer) at that time will mean an automatic suspension of your license for six, 12, or 18 months, depending on the specific charges brought against you.
Not just another traffic ticket
At the Quinn Firm, our lawyers understand how serious a DUI charge is and what is at stake for you. We will examine every aspect of your arrest and determine if there are grounds to challenge a DUI charge, such as whether police had probable cause to stop or arrest you or if the Breathalyzer was working properly.
Of course, if you are going to celebrate during the Roar on the Shore – or at any other time – in a way that might impair your ability to drive safely, the best thing you can do for yourself is to arrange another way to get to your destination. Use a designated driver, a cab, or a ride-sharing service to get back to your home or hotel safely. Save the riding for later.
Have fun during the Roar on the Shore. You might even see a few of us out there.
