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It’s time for Roar on the Shore (and more DUI enforcement)

On Behalf of | Jul 16, 2018 | Firm News

With summer in full swing, motorcyclists in Erie, Northwest Pennsylvania and the surrounding region are anxiously awaiting the premier motorcycle event of the year: the Roar on the Shore.

Tens of thousands of motorcyclists and their friends will ride into Erie from July 18-22. The week will feature scheduled rides, concerts and other fun events.

While the week promises to be full of fun and exhaust, riders and their passengers should remember that local and state police will be out in force looking for drunk drivers. Police across Pennsylvania frequently hold roadside sobriety checkpoints, so there is a chance a few could happen during the Roar.

Your rights don’t stop when pulled over!

If police stop you on suspicion of driving drunk, remember that you have rights. Remember these facts:

  • You have the right to remain silent and not answer questions from the police.
  • You do not have to submit to a search of your vehicle if the officer asks you to.
  • You can refuse to perform any field sobriety tests or a preliminary (pre-arrest) Breathalyzer test.
  • You can also refuse post-arrest chemical testing (unless your license has already been suspended for a DUI offense, your vehicle has an “interlock” device, or in cases involving a death or serious bodily injury). However, refusing to submit to post-arrest chemical testing (blood or Breathalyzer) will mean an automatic suspension of your license for six, 12, or 18 months.

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. A few days of riding could mean a conviction on your record, which will affect your life for years to come.

Many people aren’t aware that there are often defense strategies available to them for a DUI charge. Our lawyers can determine whether police had probable cause to initiate the traffic stop or if any alcohol testing equipment was not working properly.

Of course, if you are going to drink during the Roar on the Shore, the best thing you can do for yourself is to use alternative transportation during those times. Designated drivers, cabs and Uber and Lyft can get you to your home or hotel safely. Save the riding for later.

But most importantly, have fun!

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