29 Dec Driver accused of DWI after failing to use turn signal
On Dec. 18, it was reported that a 51-year-old New York man was taken into police custody after he was suspected of driving under the influence. According to the report, a police officer conducted a traffic stop on the vehicle after he made a left turn without signaling.
The man was driving a 2004 Black Nissan Xterra when he was pulled over on Springs Fireplace Road in East Hampton at about 1:14 a.m. When the officer talked to the driver, he allegedly had the odor of alcohol on his breath. Additionally, he allegedly had bloodshot eyes, was unsteady on his feet and talked with slurred speech. He was ultimately charged with driving while intoxicated and driving with a suspended license, among other offenses.
He had previously been convicted off driving while intoxicated with a blood alcohol content of more than .08 percent in 2014. He had also had his license suspended at that time as he did not pay the fine for the drivers’ responsibility assessment. Further, he was found to be driving without an interlock device. His bail was set at $10,000.
People who have been accused of drunk driving can face a number of severe penalties if they are convicted. For example, they could lose their license, be required to pay a hefty fine or even end up in jail. If there is evidence that the authorities conducted an illegal traffic stop or searched a vehicle without probable cause, a criminal defense attorney may assist them with seeking to have the case dismissed. If the evidence is strong, the attorney could attempt negotiate an alternative sentence such as alcohol awareness classes or community service.
Source: East Hampton Patch, “Man Facing Felony DWI Charge After Arrest: Police“, Lisa Finn, Dec. 21, 2016